Psychiatric Assessment and Fundamentals Q 28
Nurse Joey is aware that the signs & symptoms that would be most specific for diagnosis anorexia are?
A. Excessive weight loss, amenorrhea & abdominal distension
B. Slow pulse, 10% weight loss & alopecia
C. Compulsive behavior, excessive fears & nausea
D. Excessive activity, memory lapses & an increased pulse
Correct Answer: A. Excessive weight loss, amenorrhea & abdominal distension
These are the major signs of anorexia nervosa. Weight loss is excessive (15% of expected weight). Patients will report symptoms such as amenorrhea, cold intolerance, constipation, extremity edema, fatigue, and irritability. They may describe restrictive behaviors related to food like calorie counting or portion control, and purging methods, for example, self-induced vomiting or use of diuretics or laxatives. Many exercise compulsively for extended periods of time. Patients with anorexia nervosa develop multiple complications related to prolonged starvation and purging behaviors.
Option B: Anorexia nervosa — often simply called anorexia — is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of weight. People with anorexia place a high value on controlling their weight and shape, using extreme efforts that tend to significantly interfere with their lives.
Option C: The physical signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa are related to starvation. Anorexia also includes emotional and behavioral issues involving an unrealistic perception of body weight and an extremely strong fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. It may be difficult to notice signs and symptoms because what is considered a low body weight is different for each person, and some individuals may not appear extremely thin. Also, people with anorexia often disguise their thinness, eating habits, or physical problems.
Option D: Some people who have anorexia binge and purge, similar to individuals who have bulimia. But people with anorexia generally struggle with abnormally low body weight, while individuals with bulimia typically are normal to above normal weight. Starvation affects the brain and influences mood changes, rigidity in thinking, anxiety, and reduction in appetite. Starvation and weight loss may change the way the brain works in vulnerable individuals, which may perpetuate restrictive eating behaviors and make it difficult to return to normal eating habits.