What is an appropriate goal for a nurse working with a patient who has bulimia nervosa?

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Question 1 of 5

What is an appropriate goal for a nurse working with a patient who has bulimia nervosa?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. Eliminating purging behaviors addresses the primary symptom of bulimia nervosa. 2. Establishing healthy eating habits promotes long-term recovery and overall well-being. 3. Focusing on behavior change rather than weight control aligns with evidence-based treatment. 4. This goal is client-centered, prioritizing the patient's mental and physical health. Summary: A: Focusing solely on exercise does not address the root cause of bulimia. C: Emphasizing weight maintenance may reinforce unhealthy body image and behaviors. D: Adopting a restrictive diet can exacerbate disordered eating patterns and harm health.

Question 2 of 5

The patient tells his primary nurse 'I get into trouble because I have hair-trigger responses. I shoot from the hip. Lots of times that gets me into a mess.' Which response would be most therapeutic?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates empathy and offers a therapeutic approach to help the patient manage their hair-trigger responses. By suggesting ways to slow down and think before acting, the nurse is providing practical strategies for the patient to work on self-regulation and impulse control. This response shows active listening and a commitment to supporting the patient in developing coping mechanisms. Option B is incorrect as it focuses on exploring the root cause rather than offering immediate support. Option C is incorrect as it may encourage dwelling on past mistakes rather than focusing on problem-solving. Option D is incorrect as it praises the patient without addressing the need for behavior change.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse in the emergency department tells the daughter of a patient that her 86-year-old mother has had a stroke. The daughter tearfully asks the nurse, 'Who will take care of me now?' When the nurse explores this query, the daughter mentions that her mother always tells her what job to take, what clothes to buy and wear, and what to have for lunch. The daughter states that she needs someone to direct her and reassure her when she gets anxious. With which personality disorder is this presentation most consistent?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dependent. This presentation is most consistent with dependent personality disorder because the daughter is displaying excessive need for someone to take care of her and make decisions for her, as well as seeking reassurance and guidance when anxious. Individuals with dependent personality disorder often lack self-confidence and rely heavily on others for emotional and physical needs. Choice A: Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by attention-seeking behavior and excessive emotions, which do not match the daughter's presentation. Choice C: Narcissistic personality disorder involves a grandiose sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy for others, which is not evident in the daughter's behavior. Choice D: Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions, as well as impulsive behaviors, which are not reflected in the daughter's need for constant direction and reassurance.

Question 4 of 5

Which complication should a nurse monitor for when treating a patient with bulimia nervosa who is experiencing frequent vomiting?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypokalemia and dental enamel erosion. 1. Bulimia nervosa involves frequent vomiting, leading to loss of potassium (hypokalemia) due to electrolyte imbalance. 2. Vomiting also damages tooth enamel, causing dental erosion. 3. Hyperkalemia and elevated blood pressure (choice B) are not typically associated with bulimia. 4. Severe dehydration and low blood sugar (choice C) are possible but not the primary concerns. 5. Hypercalcemia and weight gain (choice D) are not common complications of bulimia.

Question 5 of 5

What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient with bulimia nervosa who is engaging in purging behaviors?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The priority nursing intervention for a patient with bulimia nervosa engaging in purging behaviors is to monitor electrolyte levels and cardiac function. This is crucial due to the potential electrolyte imbalances and cardiac complications resulting from purging behaviors. Monitoring these parameters helps prevent life-threatening conditions such as hypokalemia and arrhythmias. Option B is incorrect as self-monitoring of food intake may not address the immediate health risks associated with purging behaviors. Option C is also incorrect as emotional support and body image acceptance are important but not the immediate priority in this case. Option D is incorrect as focusing on weight loss through diet control can exacerbate the patient's eating disorder behaviors and does not address the urgent medical concerns associated with purging.

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