A client with an eating disorder says, "I don't deserve to eat because I'm overweight." What response by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

Stabilizing the patient's physical condition. For individuals with severe eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, the priority is often to address their physical health and stabilize any medical complications arising from malnutrition. This might involve medical interventions, nutritional rehabilitation, and closely monitoring vital signs to prevent serious health consequences.

Choice B rationale:

Addressing the psychological aspects of the disorder. While addressing the psychological aspects is an integral part of treating eating disorders, it's crucial to prioritize physical health when dealing with severe cases. Malnutrition can lead to various medical complications, including electrolyte imbalances, organ damage, and cardiac issues. Without addressing the physical health first, psychological interventions might be less effective.

Choice C rationale:

Preventing relapse and maintaining recovery. Preventing relapse and maintaining recovery are important aspects of long-term treatment, but they become more relevant after the patient's physical condition has been stabilized. Once the immediate physical risks are minimized, efforts can shift toward addressing psychological factors and developing strategies to prevent relapse.

Choice D rationale:

Providing ongoing follow-up care. Ongoing follow-up care is essential for individuals with eating disorders to ensure that they continue to progress in their recovery journey and to monitor any potential relapse signs. However, this becomes more pertinent once the patient's physical condition has been stabilized and initial treatment has been provided.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring vital signs and weight. While monitoring vital signs and weight is an essential aspect of patient care, it primarily focuses on the physical health of the patient. In the case of an eating disorder, the underlying psychological and emotional issues also need attention, which is not addressed solely by monitoring vital signs and weight. The patient's emotional well-being and coping strategies are equally important in promoting overall recovery.

Choice B rationale:

Providing positive reinforcement for eating. Positive reinforcement can be helpful in encouraging desired behaviors; however, focusing solely on positive reinforcement for eating might oversimplify the complexities of treating an eating disorder. Eating disorders are often rooted in psychological factors, and addressing the underlying causes and emotions is crucial. Providing positive reinforcement might not address the emotional challenges the patient is facing, and a more comprehensive approach is needed.

Choice C rationale:

Teaching coping skills and stress management techniques. This is the correct choice. Eating disorders are often connected to emotional distress, poor body image, and stress. Teaching coping skills and stress management techniques empowers the patient to develop healthier ways of dealing with emotions and triggers that may contribute to their eating disorder. By addressing the emotional aspect, the patient is better equipped to manage their disorder and work towards recovery.

Choice D rationale:

Involving the family in the treatment process. Involving the family in the treatment process can be beneficial, as family support is important for recovery. However, it's not the most appropriate intervention on its own. Eating disorders are complex and individualized, and addressing the patient's personal coping mechanisms and emotional well-being should be the primary focus. Family involvement can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but it should not replace teaching the patient coping skills and stress management techniques.