The nurse is caring for a client admitted to an inpatient eating disorder unit. Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The nurse anticipates that the client might have dropdownevidenced by the client'sdropdown

weight, which matches the client’s cachectic appearance, BMI of 15.4 kg/m², bradycardia (55/min), hypotension (89/58 mmHg), and electrolyte imbalance (potassium 2.8 mEq/L). The client’s denial of their condition and desire to lose more weight despite being underweight further support this diagnosis. Bulimia nervosa typically involves binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or excessive laxative use, which the client denies engaging in regularly. The absence of dental caries, enamel erosion, or parotid gland enlargement, common in bulimia, also makes this diagnosis less likely. Binge eating disorder is marked by episodes of excessive eating without compensatory purging behaviors, and it is usually associated with overweight or obesity. Since this client is severely underweight and restricts food intake, binge eating disorder is unlikely. Body mass index is a key diagnostic factor for anorexia nervosa, as a BMI below 18.5 kg/m² indicates underweight status, and a BMI of 15.4 kg/m² suggests severe malnutrition. Recent weight gain is mentioned by the client but is not a significant amount (2 pounds in a month), and the client remains underweight, making BMI a more reliable indicator. Laxative use is sometimes seen in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, but the client states they "only sometimes" use laxatives, meaning BMI is a stronger piece of evidence supporting anorexia nervosa.