A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a 14-year-old who has anorexia nervosa.

The client was brought to the emergency department by a parent due to fainting at home earlier this evening.

The parent reports that the client has been worried about their weight and has been refusing to eat.

The parent also reports the client has been spending several hours at the local gym.

Vital signs were obtained and labs were drawn as requested by the provider.

Which of the following 5 assessment findings require immediate follow-up?

Phosphate level

Capillary refill

Sodium level

Magnesium level

Glucose level.

Answer and Explanation

Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E

: The correct answer/s is Choice/s.

Choice A rationale: Phosphate level is a crucial indicator of the body’s electrolyte balance. In patients with anorexia nervosa, phosphate levels can be significantly affected due to malnutrition and the body’s metabolic response to starvation. Low phosphate levels, known as hypophosphatemia, can lead to serious complications such as muscle weakness, neurological dysfunction, and potentially life-threatening cardiac issues.

Choice B rationale: Capillary refill is a quick test performed on a patient to assess the adequacy of peripheral circulation. The time taken for color to return to an external capillary bed after pressure has been applied to cause blanching signifies the status of the patient’s peripheral blood circulation. Delayed capillary refill time may indicate shock or dehydration, which could be a concern in a patient with anorexia nervosa who may be dehydrated or malnourished.

Choice C rationale: Sodium level is another important electrolyte that needs to be monitored. Patients with anorexia nervosa can have abnormal sodium levels due to various factors such as vomiting, use of diuretics, or not consuming enough dietary sodium. Both high sodium (hypernatremia) and low sodium (hyponatremia) levels can lead to severe neurological symptoms and are considered medical emergencies.

Choice D rationale: Magnesium level is also an important consideration in patients with anorexia nervosa. Low magnesium levels, or hypomagnesemia, can occur due to inadequate dietary intake or excessive loss from the gastrointestinal tract, which can be seen in conditions like anorexia nervosa. Hypomagnesemia can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, seizures, and even cardiac arrhythmias.

Choice E rationale: Glucose level is a key indicator of a person’s metabolic state and energy balance. In patients with anorexia nervosa, glucose levels can be low due to inadequate food intake. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can lead to symptoms such as weakness, tremors, confusion, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale: While a heart rate of 52/min is lower than the normal range (60-100/min), it’s not uncommon in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to the body’s adaptation to conserve energy.

However, it’s not the most critical vital sign to address first in this scenario.

Choice B rationale: A respiratory rate of 26/min is slightly elevated (normal range is 12-20/min), possibly due to anxiety or distress.

However, it’s not the most immediate concern compared to other vital signs.

Choice C rationale: The client’s blood pressure is 84/50 mm Hg, which is significantly lower than the normal range (90/60 to 120/80 mm Hg). This could indicate hypotension, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, and inadequate blood flow to organs.

Hypotension is a common complication of anorexia nervosa due to decreased blood volume and weakened heart muscle.

Therefore, it should be addressed first.

Choice D rationale: The client’s temperature is 36.1°C (97°F), which is slightly lower than the normal body temperature range (36.5–37.5°C or 97.7–99.5°F). Hypothermia is a common complication in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to loss of body fat, which provides insulation.

However, it’s not the most immediate concern in this scenario.

In conclusion, the nurse should first address the client’s blood pressure due to the potential risks associated with hypotension.

A. "There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it." B. "I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs." C. "My parents treat me like a baby sometimes." D. "None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either.".

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale: A 13-year-old girl worrying about a pimple on her face is a common concern at this age. Adolescence is a time of significant physical changes, including the onset of acne. While this can cause distress and affect self-esteem, it is not as immediate a concern as some of the other options.

Choice B rationale: Menarche, or the onset of menstruation, typically occurs around the age of 12-14, but it can vary widely. Some girls may start their periods as early as 9 or as late as 16. This girl’s concern about not having started her period yet, while valid, is not unusual or immediately concerning given her age.

Choice C rationale: Feeling like one’s parents are treating them like a baby is a common sentiment among adolescents who are striving for more independence. It’s a normal part of the developmental process and, while it can cause conflict and frustration, it is not an immediate concern.

Choice D rationale: This statement indicates that the girl is feeling socially isolated, which can be a sign of social problems or mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Social relationships and a sense of belonging are crucial for mental health, particularly during adolescence. This should be the nurse’s priority to address.

Please note that these rationales are based on general knowledge and understanding of adolescent development and mental health. For a more accurate and detailed explanation, it would be best to consult with a healthcare professional or refer to trusted health resources.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in a mental health unit is admitting a female client who has anorexia nervosa. The admission vital signs are as follows: Heart rate 52/min, Respiratory rate 26/min, Blood pressure 84/50 mm Hg, Temperature 36.1C(97F). The nurse should first address the client's:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A school nurse is talking with a 13-year-old female at her annual health-screening visit.Which of the following comments made by the adolescent should be the nurse's priority to address?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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