The nurse is aware that the major health complication associated with anorexia nervosa is:
Cardiac dysrhythmia resulting in cardiac arrest
Endocrine imbalance causing amenorrhea
Decreased metabolism causing cold intolerance
Glucose intolerance resulting in hypoglycemia
The Correct Answer is A
a. Cardiac dysrhythmia resulting in cardiac arrest
Explanation of Choices
Choice A Reason: Cardiac Dysrhythmia Resulting in Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac dysrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, are a significant health complication associated with anorexia nervosa. These dysrhythmias can result from electrolyte imbalances, particularly low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which are common in individuals with anorexia due to malnutrition and purging behaviors. Severe dysrhythmias can lead to cardiac arrest, making this one of the most critical and potentially fatal complications of anorexia nervosa. The heart muscle can weaken due to prolonged malnutrition, leading to a condition known as myocardial atrophy, which further increases the risk of cardiac complications.
Choice B Reason: Endocrine Imbalance Causing Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, is a common endocrine complication in females with anorexia nervosa. This condition occurs due to the body’s response to severe weight loss and malnutrition, which disrupts the normal production of reproductive hormones. While amenorrhea is a significant health issue, it is not as immediately life-threatening as cardiac dysrhythmias. Amenorrhea can lead to long-term complications such as infertility and osteoporosis but does not typically result in acute medical emergencies.
Choice C Reason: Decreased Metabolism Causing Cold Intolerance
Decreased metabolism and cold intolerance are common symptoms in individuals with anorexia nervosa. The body reduces its metabolic rate in response to prolonged starvation to conserve energy. This can lead to a lower body temperature and increased sensitivity to cold. While uncomfortable and indicative of severe malnutrition, decreased metabolism and cold intolerance are not as immediately dangerous as cardiac dysrhythmias. These symptoms reflect the body’s adaptation to a state of energy deficiency but do not pose an immediate threat to life.
Choice D Reason: Glucose Intolerance Resulting in Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur in individuals with anorexia nervosa due to inadequate food intake. However, glucose intolerance and hypoglycemia are less common and less severe complications compared to cardiac dysrhythmias. Hypoglycemia can cause symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and fainting, but it is typically manageable with appropriate nutritional support. It does not carry the same immediate risk of fatality as cardiac dysrhythmias.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason: “I’d rather be dead than live like this. I do not want to be alive.”
This statement reflects suicidal ideation, which is a common symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD). Individuals with MDD often experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, leading them to believe that life is not worth living. Suicidal thoughts are a serious concern and require immediate attention and intervention.
Choice B Reason: “If I can just keep ignoring my feelings, I’ll be fine.”
This statement indicates a form of denial or avoidance, which is also common in individuals with MDD. People with depression may try to ignore or suppress their feelings in an attempt to cope with their condition. However, this approach is generally ineffective and can lead to worsening symptoms over time.
Choice C Reason: “I deserve to be this way. I’ve not accomplished anything important in my life.”
Feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt are hallmark symptoms of MDD. Individuals with depression often have a negative self-view and believe that they are failures or that they deserve to suffer. This distorted thinking pattern can significantly impact their overall well-being and quality of life.
Choice D Reason: “This is a bad episode, but I will be well soon.”
This statement reflects a more optimistic outlook, which is less common in individuals with MDD. While some people with depression may have moments of hope, the pervasive nature of the disorder typically leads to a more negative and hopeless perspective. Therefore, this choice is less likely to be heard during an intake assessment for MDD.
Choice E Reason: “I am determined to fight this episode and get through it.”
Similar to choice D, this statement indicates a positive and proactive attitude towards managing depression. While determination and resilience are important for recovery, they are not typically expressed by individuals during the acute phase of MDD. This choice is also less likely to be heard during an intake assessment for MDD.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Promoting activities that encourage self-reflection. While promoting self-reflection is important in the therapeutic process, it is not the most essential aspect initially for establishing a trusting nurse-patient relationship. Self-reflection activities are more effective once a foundation of trust has been established.
Choice B Reason:
Conveying an accepting attitude. This statement is correct. Conveying an accepting attitude is crucial in the initial stages of establishing a trusting nurse-patient relationship. Patients with borderline personality disorder often feel judged and misunderstood. An accepting attitude helps to create a safe and supportive environment, which is essential for building trust and encouraging open communication.
Choice C Reason:
Identifying community resources. Identifying community resources is important for long-term support and management of borderline personality disorder, but it is not the most essential aspect initially for establishing trust. This step is more relevant once the therapeutic relationship has been established and the patient is ready to engage with external support systems.
Choice D Reason:
Providing positive feedback. Providing positive feedback is beneficial in reinforcing positive behaviors and encouraging progress. However, it is not the most essential aspect initially for establishing trust. Positive feedback is more effective when the patient already feels understood and supported by the nurse.
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