Age Specific Patient Care Related

Review Age Specific Patient Care related questions and content

A patient with anorexia nervosa is being treated with refeeding. Which complication should the nurse monitor for during this phase?

  • A. Hyperkalemia and hyperglycemia.
  • B. Hypophosphatemia and cardiac arrhythmias.
  • C. Increased appetite and food cravings.
  • D. Dehydration and hypotension.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypophosphatemia and cardiac arrhythmias. During refeeding in anorexia nervosa, there is a risk of rapid shifts in electrolytes, particularly phosphorus, leading to hypophosphatemia which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. This is a critical complication that the nurse should monitor for. Hyperkalemia and hyperglycemia (choice A) are less common in refeeding syndrome. Increased appetite and food cravings (choice C) are expected outcomes of refeeding, not complications. Dehydration and hypotension (choice D) are potential issues but are not specific to refeeding in anorexia nervosa.