A patient being admitted to the eating disorders unit has a yellow cast to the skin and fine downy hair covering the body. The patient weighs 70 pounds; height is 5 feet, 4 inches. The patient is quiet and says only, "I won't eat until I look thin." What is the priority initial nursing diagnosis?

A) Anxiety, related to fear of weight gain
B) Disturbed body image, related to weight loss
C) Ineffective coping, related to lack of conflict resolution skills
D) Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to self-starvation

Question

Laura Garcia · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  The physical assessment shows cachexia, which indicates imbalanced nutrition. Addressing the patient's self-starvation is the priority above the incorrect responses.

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