A nurse is caring for a client who has bulimia nervosa.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Observe the client during and after meals.
Suggest that the client assist with meal planning.
Instruct the client about effective coping strategies.
Refer the client to a support group for clients who have eating disorders.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse's first action when caring for a client with bulimia nervosa should be to observe the client during and after meals. This is essential to monitor for signs of binge-eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or the misuse of laxatives. Timely observation can help ensure the client's safety and provide an opportunity for immediate intervention if necessary.
Choice B rationale:
Suggesting that the client assist with meal planning can be a beneficial intervention, but it should not be the first action. Clients with bulimia nervosa often have complex emotional and psychological issues related to their eating habits, so it's crucial to address the immediate risks of binge-purge episodes before moving on to meal planning.
Choice C rationale:
Instructing the client about effective coping strategies is important for long-term recovery, but it should not be the first action. Immediate safety concerns, such as monitoring for binge-purge behaviors, take precedence in the initial care of a client with bulimia nervosa.
Choice D rationale:
Referring the client to a support group is a valuable intervention in the long-term management of bulimia nervosa, but it should not be the first action. The immediate priority is to assess and address any acute risks associated with the disorder, such as binge-purge episodes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Massaging the affected extremity is contraindicated in a client with deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) Massaging the area can dislodge the blood clot, leading to embolism and potentially life-threatening complications.
Choice B rationale:
Administering aspirin for pain is not the appropriate action for a client with deep-vein thrombosis. Aspirin is not the primary treatment for DVT, and it does not address the underlying cause or prevent further clot formation.
Choice C rationale:
Initiating bed rest is the correct action for a client with deep-vein thrombosis. Bed rest helps to reduce the risk of clot dislodgement and embolism. The client should avoid unnecessary movement and keep the affected leg elevated to promote blood flow and prevent complications.
Choice D rationale:
Applying an ice pack to the affected extremity is not the recommended intervention for a client with deep-vein thrombosis. Cold application can cause vasoconstriction, potentially worsening the condition by reducing blood flow to the already affected area.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking, "What would your family do without you?" can be seen as judgmental and may not encourage open communication. It doesn't directly address the client's statement about feeling like a burden or wanting to be gone.
Choice B rationale:
Saying, "When you get better you will not feel this way," minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It does not show empathy or concern for the client's current emotional state.
Choice C rationale:
Asking, "Why would you think a thing like that?" can come across as judgmental and may make the client defensive. It does not directly address the client's emotional distress or suicidal ideation.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct answer. "Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" is a direct and appropriate question to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. It demonstrates concern for the client's well-being and opens the door for a more in-depth conversation about their feelings and thoughts. Assessing for suicidal ideation is a crucial step in providing appropriate care for a client with depressive disorder.
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