A client with an eating disorder has a distorted body image and irrational beliefs. What therapeutic approach should the nurse use to address this issue?
Ignore the client's beliefs to avoid escalating distress.
Encourage the client to engage in self-isolation.
Address cognitive distortions and irrational beliefs.
Avoid discussing body image to prevent embarrassment.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Ignoring the client's beliefs to avoid escalating distress is not a therapeutic approach. Addressing cognitive distortions and irrational beliefs is crucial in helping the client reframe their thoughts and promote healthier behaviors.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging the client to engage in self-isolation is counterproductive. Isolation can worsen the client's condition and hinder their recovery.
Choice C rationale:
Addressing cognitive distortions and irrational beliefs is the appropriate therapeutic approach. This involves working with the client to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, helping them develop a more realistic perception of their body image and self-worth.
Choice D rationale:
Avoiding discussing body image to prevent embarrassment is not effective. Open and sensitive discussions about body image are important in the therapeutic process to help the client gain insight into their feelings and beliefs.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bradycardia and tachycardia. While these cardiovascular symptoms can occur in eating disorders, they are more commonly associated with anorexia nervosa rather than bulimia nervosa. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is often seen in individuals with severe anorexia due to the body's adaptive response to conserve energy. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) can occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in those with anorexia. However, in bulimia nervosa, the rapid cycle of binge eating and purging is more likely to lead to electrolyte imbalances that cause other symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Hypertension and mitral valve prolapse. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not a common cardiovascular symptom of bulimia nervosa. Mitral valve prolapse, which involves the improper closing of the heart's mitral valve, is also not a typical cardiovascular manifestation of bulimia nervosa. Eating disorders primarily affect the electrical conduction system of the heart and can lead to rhythm disturbances.
Choice C rationale:
Orthostatic hypotension and arrhythmias. This is the correct choice. Orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing, is a common cardiovascular symptom of bulimia nervosa. It is often a result of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances caused by frequent vomiting and laxative use. Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) can also occur due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly low levels of potassium, which can disrupt the heart's electrical activity.
Choice D rationale:
Pericardial effusion and cardiomyopathy. While pericardial effusion (accumulation of fluid around the heart) and cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle) can occur in individuals with eating disorders, they are not the most common cardiovascular symptoms. These conditions usually result from prolonged malnutrition and severe electrolyte imbalances, which can occur in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. However, orthostatic hypotension and arrhythmias are more characteristic of bulimia nervosa.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Telling the patient, "You need to eat to maintain your health," is directive and may come across as dismissive of the patient's concerns. This response doesn't address the patient's fear and could potentially increase their resistance.
Choice B rationale:
Saying, "You're not overweight. You don't need to worry about gaining weight," disregards the patient's feelings and trivializes their anxiety. It's essential to acknowledge their fear and provide appropriate information and support.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct response. Acknowledging the patient's fear while also emphasizing the potential harm of not eating is empathetic and informative. It opens the door for further discussion and education about the consequences of disordered eating.
Choice D rationale:
Responding with, "You should focus on something other than your weight," avoids addressing the patient's concerns and feelings. It's crucial to address their fears in a supportive and educational manner.
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