Eating disorders Flashcards
Four major eating disorders
Anorexia
Bulimia
Obesity
Binge eating disorder
General characteristics of eating disorders
Characterized by extremes in eating
behaviors
Frequently coexist with other
psychological disorders
Coping mechanisms
3rd most common chronic illness in
adolescents
Who is affected by eating disorders
Mostly female caucasian middle-upper SES.
Eating disorder influences
The hypothalamus
contains the appetite
regulation center
within the brain.
Eating behaviors are
influenced by society
and culture.
Society and culture
influence what is
considered desirable in
the female body.
Anorexia and Bulimia: Predisposing factors -Biological Influences
Gender, family history, serotonin
Anorexia and Bulimia: Predisposing factors -Psychological Influences
Perfectionistic people pleaser Difficulty communicating negative emotions and resolving conflict Low self-esteem Stressful times of transition History of obesity/dieting/bullying
Anorexia and Bulimia: Predisposing factors -Sociologic Influences
Media
Anorexia General facts
Self-induced starvation developing from
an intense fear of becoming obese
Gross distortion of body image
(perceiving self as “fat” even when
emaciated
Preoccupation with food & refusal to eat
No menstrual periods for 3 months once
menstuation has begun
Most common cause of death are complications (cardiac arrest, electrolyte imbalance, suicide)
Mostly females 12-30
Anorexia S/S
Extreme wt loss > 15% BW Hypothermia bradycardia hypotension edema metabolic changes amenorrhea before weight loss cold hands/feet constipation dry skin and hair, brittle nails headaches fainting/dizziness anergia lack of appetite difficulty concentrating irritability depression anxiety food obsession delayed cap refill Low K, Mg, Na skin bruises easily anemia
Bulimia general facts
Episodic, uncontrolled, compulsive, rapid
ingestion of large quantities of food (binging)
followed by one or more of the following
behaviors (purging)
1) self induced vomiting
2) misuse of laxatives, diuretics or enemas
3) vigorous or excessive exercise
(These will rid the body of excess calories)
More prevalent than anorexia
Mean onset of 18 yr
Bulimia binging
Binge foods: Hi calorie, sweet, soft, smooth texture Binging usually in secret & terminated only if abdominal discomfort, sleep, or social activities interrupt Feelings of self degradation and depressed mood commonly follow an episode
Bulimia S/S
Normal wt but may fluctuate Electrolyte imbalance/dehydration Eroded tooth enamel from vomit Possible tear in gastric or esoph. mucosa Depression, anxiety Poss. substance abuse (amphetamines, etoh) anemia irregular heart beat weak heart muscle Heart failure bradycardia hypotension low K, Na, Mg Renal issues from diuretic abuse constipation, irregular BM bloating, diarrhea, cramping Irregular or absent periods low self esteem, shame sore swollen cheeks gum disease sensitive teeth muscle fatigue stomach ulcers delayed gastric emptying abrasion of knuckles dry skin
Anorexia Bulimia Nursing care Dx: Imbalanced Nutrition < body reqs
S/S wt loss, poor turgor, lanugo, bradycardia, hypotension, arrythmia
Determine nutritional reqs Explain behavior mod plan Daily weight and IO Assess turgor and mucous membranes Stay with client during meals and 1 hour after to process anxiety Limit meals to 30 min
Anorexia Bulimia Imbalanced Nutrition < BR outcomes
CLient gain 2-3lb /wk
No signs of malnutrition or dehydration
Consumes adequate calories
No stashing of food or vomiting
Anorexia Bulimia Nursing care Dx: Ineffecive denial
Inability to admit impact of maladaptive eating behaviors Care: Develop trusting relationship; give positive regard Don’t bargain; explain how privileges and consequences are based on compliance with therapy and weight gain. Encourage client to verbalize feelings
