Which symptom is most closely associated with the onset of anorexia nervosa?

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Question 1 of 5

Which symptom is most closely associated with the onset of anorexia nervosa?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because an obsession with calorie intake and extreme weight loss is a hallmark symptom of anorexia nervosa. Individuals with anorexia nervosa typically have a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight. This leads them to restrict their food intake severely, leading to extreme weight loss. Choice A is incorrect because excessive eating followed by purging is more characteristic of bulimia nervosa, not anorexia nervosa. Choice C is incorrect as compulsive exercising is more commonly associated with another eating disorder called orthorexia nervosa. Choice D is incorrect as binge eating episodes with a lack of control are symptoms of binge eating disorder, not anorexia nervosa.

Question 2 of 5

Which of the following is an expected finding for a patient with anorexia nervosa?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Patients with anorexia nervosa often have bradycardia and hypotension due to the physiological effects of severe malnutrition. Explanation: Severe restriction of food intake leads to decreased energy stores, causing the body to slow down its metabolic processes, including heart rate and blood pressure. Bradycardia and hypotension are common findings in individuals with anorexia nervosa. Summary: A: Increased appetite and food cravings are not expected findings in anorexia nervosa as patients typically have a decreased appetite. B: A body mass index (BMI) in the normal range is not expected in anorexia nervosa, as patients often have a low BMI due to significant weight loss. D: Elevated blood pressure and rapid pulse are not typical findings in anorexia nervosa; rather, patients may present with low blood pressure and bradycardia.

Question 3 of 5

Priority nursing interventions for a client with borderline personality disorder who has a history of self-mutilation and is currently angry, irritable, and impulsive would be:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Establishing a contract for safety with the client. This is the priority intervention as it focuses on ensuring the client's immediate safety. By setting up a contract for safety, the nurse can collaborate with the client on identifying warning signs and developing a plan to prevent self-harm. Choice B (Teaching the client ways to manage anger) and Choice C (Helping the client tolerate feelings) are important interventions but may not be as urgent as ensuring the client's safety in this scenario. Choice D (Implementing behavioral modification) is not the priority because the client's safety needs to be addressed first before focusing on behavioral changes.

Question 4 of 5

Which statement by a patient with bulimia nervosa suggests the need for further education?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it indicates a lack of awareness about the harmful consequences of purging. The statement suggests a rationalization of continuing the harmful behavior, showing a need for further education on the risks associated with purging. Choice A demonstrates understanding of the harm, B shows progress in controlling binge eating, and D acknowledges the potential benefits of therapy. Educating the patient about the dangers of purging is crucial in addressing their condition effectively.

Question 5 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.

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