Age Specific Care Competency Related

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Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention for a patient with anorexia nervosa during the refeeding process?

  • A. Encourage the patient to engage in physical activity to stimulate appetite.
  • B. Monitor vital signs and electrolyte levels to avoid refeeding syndrome.
  • C. Offer high-calorie snacks to speed up weight gain.
  • D. Focus on the patient's body image concerns before addressing nutrition.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring vital signs and electrolyte levels is crucial during the refeeding process to prevent refeeding syndrome, a potentially life-threatening complication. This intervention ensures early detection of any electrolyte imbalances or cardiac complications that may arise as the body readjusts to increased food intake. Encouraging physical activity (A) can be harmful due to the patient's compromised state. Offering high-calorie snacks (C) may lead to rapid weight gain and increase the risk of refeeding syndrome. Focusing on body image concerns (D) is important but should not take precedence over addressing the patient's immediate medical needs.