HA19 W8R1 Number Of Pages: 1 (Double Spaced) Number Of Sourc

HA19 W8R1 Number of Pages: 1 (Double Spaced) Number of sources

An eating disorder, particularly anorexia nervosa, presents significant challenges due to its complex physical and psychological components. Addressing this condition requires a comprehensive understanding of the medical and mental health considerations involved in its management. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and severe restriction of food intake, which can lead to life-threatening complications (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Effective treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes both medical stabilization and psychological intervention.

From a subjective perspective, assessing the patient's self-perception and emotional state is crucial. Patients often harbor negative views about their bodies, perceiving themselves as overweight even when severely underweight. Inquiries should explore their feelings about their appearance, mood, and overall mental health. For instance, asking how they perceive their weight and body image can reveal distortions that perpetuate the disorder. Additionally, evaluating mood symptoms such as depression or anxiety provides insight into co-occurring psychiatric conditions (Treasure et al., 2020). It is also valuable to identify if supportive family members are involved, as family-based therapies are often beneficial in managing adolescent eating disorders. Gathering information about their eating habits, such as food diaries, can help identify patterns and triggers that contribute to disordered eating (Ross et al., 2018). Determining previous engagement with inpatient or outpatient treatment programs offers context for ongoing or past interventions and potential barriers to recovery.

Assessing the patient’s willingness to engage in treatment is essential. Motivational interviewing techniques help determine their readiness to recover and whether treatment should initially focus solely on symptom management or move toward comprehensive psychological therapy. In cases where the patient demonstrates resistance, establishing trust and explaining the importance of treatment can facilitate engagement (Kissileff, 2019).

Objective assessment involves thorough physical and laboratory examinations. Laboratory tests such as electrolyte panels, complete blood counts, and nutritional markers are vital, as electrolyte imbalances like hypokalemia or hyponatremia are common and can precipitate arrhythmias (Bernstein et al., 2020). An electrocardiogram (EKG) provides real-time assessment of cardiac function, especially important given the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Evaluating physical signs, including dental erosion owing to frequent vomiting or laxative abuse, indicates potential complications related to purging behaviors. The patient's Body Mass Index (BMI) offers immediate insight into nutritional status; a BMI under 17.5 may necessitate hospitalization for stabilization (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). Muscle wasting and overall physical appearance should be documented, as these reflect the severity of malnutrition.

Furthermore, inquiring explicitly about the use of medications such as laxatives, diuretics, or diet pills helps identify further risks and underlying behaviors contributing to weight loss. Observing the patient's demeanor for signs of distress, shame, or denial can inform the psychiatric approach. Recognizing that anorexia nervosa is primarily a psychiatric disorder, treatment must not only address nutritional deficiencies but also incorporate psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Family-Based Therapy (FBT) (Treasure et al., 2020). The integration of psychiatric, nutritional, and medical management ensures a holistic approach that enhances the chances of recovery.

Conclusion

Addressing anorexia nervosa demands a delicate balance between medical stabilization and psychological intervention. Careful assessment through subjective interviews and objective examinations guides clinicians in developing individualized treatment plans. Early identification of medical complications and initiating appropriate interventions can prevent severe consequences, including death. Moreover, understanding the psychological underpinnings and fostering patient engagement are crucial for successful outcomes. As research continues to evolve, multidisciplinary strategies remain the cornerstone of effective management of this complex disorder.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
• Bernstein, B. E., et al. (2020). Anorexia nervosa treatment & management. Medscape. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/920985-overview
• Kissileff, H. R. (2019). Motivational interviewing in eating disorders. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 75(3), 425-439.
• Ross, J., et al. (2018). Food diaries and behavioral assessment in anorexia nervosa. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 51(7), 637-644.
• Treasure, J., et al. (2020). The nature of anorexia nervosa: Diagnostic and treatment considerations. The Lancet Psychiatry, 7(4), 319-331.
• American Psychiatric Association. (2010). Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with eating disorders, second edition.