A nurse is caring for a client who has bulimia nervosa. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A Reason: Suggesting that the client assist with meal planning may be appropriate, but it's not the first priority. Monitoring the client's eating behaviors and safety during meals takes precedence. Choice B Reason: Observe the client during and after meals. When caring for a client with bulimia nervosa, the initial priority is to monitor the client during and after meals to assess their eating behaviors and the potential for purging or other disordered eating habits. This helps ensure the client's safety and can provide valuable information for the treatment team. Once immediate safety concerns are addressed, the nurse can proceed with other aspects of care, such as assisting with meal planning, providing education on coping strategies, and referring the client to support groups as appropriate. Choice C Reason: Instructing the client about effective coping strategies is an important part of the treatment plan, but it's not the immediate priority. Ensuring the client's safety during meals is more critical initially. Choice D Reason: Referring the client to a support group can be a valuable part of long-term treatment, but it's not the first step. Monitoring and addressing immediate eating behaviors and safety come first.