The nurse is aware that the major health complication associated with anorexia nervosa is:
Cardiac dysrhythmia resulting in cardiac arrest
Endocrine imbalance causing amenorrhea
Decreased metabolism causing cold intolerance
Glucose intolerance resulting in hypoglycemia
The Correct Answer is A
a. Cardiac dysrhythmia resulting in cardiac arrest
Explanation of Choices
Choice A Reason: Cardiac Dysrhythmia Resulting in Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac dysrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, are a significant health complication associated with anorexia nervosa. These dysrhythmias can result from electrolyte imbalances, particularly low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which are common in individuals with anorexia due to malnutrition and purging behaviors. Severe dysrhythmias can lead to cardiac arrest, making this one of the most critical and potentially fatal complications of anorexia nervosa. The heart muscle can weaken due to prolonged malnutrition, leading to a condition known as myocardial atrophy, which further increases the risk of cardiac complications.
Choice B Reason: Endocrine Imbalance Causing Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, is a common endocrine complication in females with anorexia nervosa. This condition occurs due to the body’s response to severe weight loss and malnutrition, which disrupts the normal production of reproductive hormones. While amenorrhea is a significant health issue, it is not as immediately life-threatening as cardiac dysrhythmias. Amenorrhea can lead to long-term complications such as infertility and osteoporosis but does not typically result in acute medical emergencies.
Choice C Reason: Decreased Metabolism Causing Cold Intolerance
Decreased metabolism and cold intolerance are common symptoms in individuals with anorexia nervosa. The body reduces its metabolic rate in response to prolonged starvation to conserve energy. This can lead to a lower body temperature and increased sensitivity to cold. While uncomfortable and indicative of severe malnutrition, decreased metabolism and cold intolerance are not as immediately dangerous as cardiac dysrhythmias. These symptoms reflect the body’s adaptation to a state of energy deficiency but do not pose an immediate threat to life.
Choice D Reason: Glucose Intolerance Resulting in Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to inadequate food intake. However, glucose intolerance and hypoglycemia are less common and less severe complications compared to cardiac dysrhythmias. Hypoglycemia can cause symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and fainting, but it is typically manageable with appropriate nutritional support. It does not carry the same immediate risk of fatality as cardiac dysrhythmias.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["10.5"]
Explanation
Step 1: Determine the concentration of insulin in the IV bag. 100 units of insulin are added to 150 mL of normal saline.
100 units ÷ 150 mL = (100 ÷ 150) = 0.6667 units per mL Result: 0.6667 units per mL
Step 2: Calculate the rate in mL per hour needed to deliver 7 units per hour. 7 units per hour ÷ 0.6667 units per mL = (7 ÷ 0.6667) = 10.5 mL per hour Result: 10.5 mL per hour
The correct rate for the nurse to set the IV pump is 10.5 mL per hour.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Perform a neurological assessment on a patient in seclusion to compare the nurse’s findings
This task is an example of overdelegation. Performing a neurological assessment requires specialized knowledge and skills that are beyond the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. Such assessments should be conducted by a licensed nurse or healthcare provider to ensure accuracy and appropriate clinical judgment.
Choice B Reason: Play cards with 3 patients during unstructured time
This task is appropriate for a PCT. Engaging patients in recreational activities like playing cards does not require specialized clinical skills and falls within the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. It helps in providing social interaction and can be beneficial for the patients’ mental health.
Choice C Reason: Review follow-up care with a patient about to be discharged
This task is an example of overdelegation. Reviewing follow-up care involves providing important information about the patient’s ongoing treatment and care plan, which requires clinical knowledge and the ability to answer any questions the patient may have. This responsibility should be handled by a licensed nurse or healthcare provider.
Choice D Reason: Set a goal for the day for a patient with a borderline personality disorder
This task is also an example of overdelegation. Setting therapeutic goals for patients, especially those with complex mental health conditions like borderline personality disorder, requires clinical expertise and an understanding of the patient’s treatment plan. This should be done by a licensed nurse or mental health professional.
Choice E Reason: Obtain a weight on a patient with bipolar disorder in a hypomanic state
This task is appropriate for a PCT. Obtaining a patient’s weight is a routine task that does not require specialized clinical skills and falls within the scope of practice for unlicensed assistive personnel. It is a straightforward task that can be safely delegated.
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