Page 2299 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

e. Binge-purge syndrome

f. Attempts to lose weight through diets,
vomiting, enemas, cathartics, and
amphetamines or diuretics
g. Assess nutritional status and the
severity of any medical problems.
h. Has a need to control, yet experiences
feelings of powerlessness or loss of
control
i. Low self-esteem
j. Poor interpersonal relationships
k. Decreased interest, or absence of
interest, in sex
l. Mood swings
m. Electrolyte imbalances
n. Physical alterations: Similar to those
that occur with anorexia nervosa
o. Important questions to ask is about
their perception of the problem and
eating habits

E. Interventions: Clients with an eating disorder

1. Establish a one-to-one therapeutic relationship with
the client; the nurse needs to establish trust and
recognize any client reluctance to establish a
relationship.
2. Establish a plan concerning the nutritional plan for the
day.
3. Assist to identify precipitants to the eating disorder.
4. Encourage the client to express feelings about the
eating behavior and how the client feels about her or
his body.
5. Be accepting and nonjudgmental.
6. Work on exploring self-concept and establishing
identity.
7. Implement behavior modification techniques.
8. Individual, group, and family therapy
9. If in a health care facility, supervise during mealtimes
and for a specified period after meals and monitor
intake and output; set a time limit for each meal and
provide a pleasant, relaxed environment for eating.
10. Monitor for signs of physical complications related to
the eating disorder.
11. When a client’s weight is below 75% of ideal body
weight, provide immediate medical stabilization as an
inpatient.

2299