A nurse is caring for a client. Which of the following client statements should the nurse identify as an indication of anorexia nervosa?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Acknowledging being skinny yet continuing restrictive behaviors indicates distorted body image, a core feature of anorexia nervosa. This reflects the client’s persistent fear of weight gain, making it the correct statement. Choice B reason: High energy is atypical in anorexia, where fatigue is common due to malnutrition. This statement suggests a different condition, making it incorrect for anorexia nervosa identification. Choice C reason: Searching for recipes may occur in anorexia but is not specific. It could reflect food preoccupation, but body image distortion is more definitive, making this incorrect. Choice D reason: Enjoying form-fitting clothes to show off the body contradicts anorexia’s body dissatisfaction. Anorexia involves hiding thinness, making this incorrect compared to acknowledging skinniness.