A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has bulimia nervosa. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?
A.
Administer bupropion 1 hr before meals
B.
Allow the client access to food throughout the day
C.
Weigh the client once weekly
D.
Observe the client for 1 hr after meals.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Observe the client for 1 hr after meals.
Explanation:
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. One of the primary goals in managing bulimia nervosa is to prevent the client from engaging in these compensatory behaviors after eating.
Observation after meals is a critical intervention for several reasons:
- Prevention of Purging: Clients with bulimia nervosa often engage in purging behaviors (vomiting, using laxatives, etc.) after meals to counteract the effects of binge eating. By observing the client for a period of time after meals, healthcare providers can help ensure that the client does not engage in these harmful behaviors.
- Behavioral Monitoring: Monitoring the client post-meal helps in identifying patterns or triggers that may lead to purging. This information can be used to tailor therapeutic interventions and support.
- Establishing a Safe Environment: Ensuring that the client remains in a safe environment post-meal reduces the temptation and opportunity to engage in purging behaviors.
Other options explained:
- A. Administer bupropion 1 hr before meals: Bupropion is generally not used for treating bulimia nervosa. Medications for bulimia typically include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine. Bupropion is not recommended as it can potentially increase the risk of seizures, especially in individuals with eating disorders.
- B. Allow the client access to food throughout the day: While this may seem supportive, unrestricted access to food could potentially exacerbate binge eating behaviors. Structured meal plans are often used to manage bulimia nervosa.
- C. Weigh the client once weekly: Regular weighing can be part of the treatment plan, but it does not directly address the immediate concerns of purging behavior or provide the necessary monitoring after meals.
In summary, observing the client for 1 hour after meals is a direct intervention aimed at preventing harmful behaviors associated with bulimia nervosa and ensuring the client’s safety and adherence to the treatment plan.