A patient was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. The history shows the patient virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. The patient's current serum potassium is 2.7 mg/dl. Which nursing diagnosis is most applicable?

A) Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss
B) Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia
C) Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia
D) Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to malnutrition as evidenced by loss of 25% of body weight and hypokalemia

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Julie Mason · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  The patient's history and laboratory results support the correct nursing diagnosis. Available data do not confirm that the patient uses laxatives, induces vomiting, or exercises excessively. The patient has hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia. There is no evidence of failure to thrive at this time.

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