A patient with anorexia nervosa is being treated with refeeding. Which complication should the nurse monitor for during this phase?

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Question 1 of 5

A patient with anorexia nervosa is being treated with refeeding. Which complication should the nurse monitor for during this phase?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypophosphatemia and cardiac arrhythmias. During refeeding in anorexia nervosa, there is a risk of rapid shifts in electrolytes, particularly phosphorus, leading to hypophosphatemia which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. This is a critical complication that the nurse should monitor for. Hyperkalemia and hyperglycemia (choice A) are less common in refeeding syndrome. Increased appetite and food cravings (choice C) are expected outcomes of refeeding, not complications. Dehydration and hypotension (choice D) are potential issues but are not specific to refeeding in anorexia nervosa.

Question 2 of 5

A patient with antisocial personality disorder tells Nurse A, 'You're a much better nurse than Nurse B said you were.' The patient tells Nurse B, 'Nurse A's upset with you for some reason.' To Nurse C the patient states, 'You'd like to think you're perfect, but I've seen three of your mistakes this morning.' These comments can best be assessed as:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: manipulative. The patient is using different strategies to manipulate each nurse's emotions and behavior for personal gain. In the first scenario, the patient is attempting to create a divide between Nurse A and Nurse B by praising Nurse A and implying Nurse B's incompetence. In the second scenario, the patient is trying to instigate conflict between Nurse A and Nurse B by falsely suggesting Nurse A's negative feelings towards Nurse B. In the third scenario, the patient is employing a manipulative tactic by undermining Nurse C's confidence and competence. These behaviors demonstrate a pattern of manipulation aimed at controlling and influencing the nurses' perceptions and actions. Choices A, B, and C do not accurately capture the manipulative intent behind the patient's actions.

Question 3 of 5

A patient with borderline personality disorder has cut her wrists. The physician orders daily dressing changes for the lacerations. The nurse performing this care should:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: provide care in a matter-of-fact manner. This approach is important in treating patients with borderline personality disorder as it helps maintain boundaries and consistency, which are crucial for managing their condition. By being matter-of-fact, the nurse can prevent potential manipulation or reinforcement of maladaptive behaviors. Encouraging the patient to vent anger (choice A) may escalate the situation. Being overly sympathetic (choice C) can blur professional boundaries. Offering to listen to feelings (choice D) may reinforce the behavior and not address the underlying issues effectively.

Question 4 of 5

What is the priority assessment for a patient with bulimia nervosa who is experiencing frequent purging behaviors?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor for signs of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. This is the priority assessment for a patient with bulimia nervosa who is experiencing frequent purging behaviors because purging can lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, which can result in serious health complications such as cardiac arrhythmias and renal issues. Monitoring electrolyte levels and hydration status is crucial for the patient's safety and well-being. Summary: - Choice B is incorrect because focusing on weight gain and exercise habits is not the priority when dealing with the immediate health risks of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. - Choice C is incorrect as expressing feelings about food and body image is important for therapy but not the priority in this acute situation. - Choice D is incorrect as monitoring for compulsive eating behaviors and binge episodes is more relevant for patients with binge eating disorder rather than bulimia nervosa with frequent purging behaviors.

Question 5 of 5

Which of the following is a priority intervention for a patient with bulimia nervosa who is experiencing electrolyte imbalances?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Monitoring the patient's heart rate and electrolyte levels closely is crucial in managing electrolyte imbalances in patients with bulimia nervosa. Electrolyte imbalances, often caused by purging behaviors, can lead to serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias. Close monitoring allows for timely interventions such as electrolyte replacement therapy to prevent cardiac issues. A: Encouraging the patient to drink fluids and increase food intake is not the priority when dealing with electrolyte imbalances as it may worsen the imbalance. C: Providing high-protein foods may be beneficial for overall nutrition but does not address the immediate need to correct electrolyte imbalances. D: Instructing the patient to avoid physical exercise is not directly related to managing electrolyte imbalances and may not address the underlying issue effectively.

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