Age Specific Patient Care Related

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What is the primary goal for a nurse treating a patient with anorexia nervosa?

  • A. To help the patient achieve optimal body weight quickly.
  • B. To restore the patient's nutritional balance and weight.
  • C. To involve the patient in daily exercise routines to improve physical health.
  • D. To encourage the patient to undergo intensive psychotherapy.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal for a nurse treating a patient with anorexia nervosa is to restore the patient's nutritional balance and weight. This is because individuals with anorexia nervosa often have severe malnutrition and weight loss, which can lead to serious health complications. By focusing on restoring nutritional balance and weight, the nurse can help improve the patient's physical health and overall well-being. Encouraging the patient to achieve optimal body weight quickly (choice A) may not be realistic or safe, as rapid weight gain can have negative consequences. Involving the patient in daily exercise routines (choice C) may exacerbate the patient's compulsive behaviors around food and exercise. Encouraging the patient to undergo intensive psychotherapy (choice D) is important, but it is not the primary goal in the initial treatment of anorexia nervosa.