The nurse is caring for a client admitted to an inpatient eating disorder unit. Exhibits For each potential provider's assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. Each finding may support more than 1 disease process. Note: Each category must have at least 1 response option selected.

Skin color (Mild yellow hue to skin) is consistent with anorexia nervosa, as carotenemia (yellowing of the skin) can occur due to malnutrition and excessive intake of beta-carotene from low-calorie, high-vegetable diets. It is not a typical feature of bulimia nervosa, as bulimic clients usually maintain a normal BMI and do not experience prolonged nutritional deficiencies. Past medical history (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) can be seen in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, as anxiety disorders are common comorbidities in eating disorders. Clients with both conditions often struggle with perfectionism, fear of weight gain, and obsessive thoughts about body image. Potassium level (2.8 mEq/L - Hypokalemia) can be seen in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. In anorexia, severe malnutrition and dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, while in bulimia, frequent purging behaviors such as vomiting or laxative use contribute to potassium loss. Lanugo (Face and back) is a hallmark feature of anorexia nervosa. It develops as a physiological adaptation to severe malnutrition and hypothermia, helping the body conserve heat. Lanugo is not typically seen in bulimia nervosa, as bulimic clients usually have adequate nutrition and body fat. Extremity assessment (1+ bilateral lower extremity edema) is consistent with anorexia nervosa due to hypoalbuminemia and fluid retention resulting from protein malnutrition. Edema is not a primary symptom of bulimia nervosa, as these clients generally maintain a normal weight and do not experience severe malnourishment. Body Mass Index (15.4 kg/m² - Underweight) strongly supports anorexia nervosa, as a BMI below 18.5 kg/m² is a defining characteristic of the disorder. Clients with bulimia typically have a normal or slightly overweight BMI due to binge eating episodes balanced by purging behaviors.