A nurse is caring for a client in an emergency department (ED). Exhibits For each assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa. Each finding may support more than one disease process or none at all. There must be at least 1 selection In every column. There does not need to be a selection in every row. (Note: Each category must have at least 1 response option selected)

Rationale: Parotid glands: Parotid gland enlargement is a typical finding in clients with bulimia nervosa due to repeated episodes of self-induced vomiting. The recurrent stimulation of salivary glands leads to painless swelling, often bilateral, and may also contribute to facial puffiness or a rounded appearance. Potassium level: A potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is low and may result from either bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa. In bulimia, this is typically due to purging through vomiting or laxative use; in anorexia, it stems from prolonged restriction, dehydration, and possible diuretic misuse. Both conditions increase the risk of cardiac complications. Weight: The client’s weight of 61.8 kg with a BMI of 20.7 falls within the normal range and is more consistent with bulimia nervosa. Individuals with anorexia nervosa usually present with a significantly lower body weight and BMI, typically below 18.5, due to extreme caloric restriction and prolonged starvation. Sodium level: A sodium level of 134 mEq/L is slightly low and can occur in both bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa. In bulimia, frequent vomiting may cause sodium loss, while in anorexia, hyponatremia can develop from malnutrition, dehydration, or excessive water intake in attempts to suppress appetite or manipulate weight. Hand findings: Calluses on the index and middle fingers, known as Russell’s sign, are associated with bulimia nervosa. These result from repeated trauma during induced vomiting episodes, as the hand comes into contact with the teeth. This finding is a classic physical sign of chronic purging behavior.