13.1 Introduction
Learning Objectives
- Identify and differentiate among several eating disorders
- Apply the nursing process to patients with eating disorders
- Establish a safe environment
- Describe appropriate interventions for behaviors associated with eating disorders
- Identify appropriate referrals to community resources
- Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions
Many people become concerned about their weight at some point in their lives. However, individuals with eating disorders have a distorted view of their weight and their body image and develop an unhealthy relationship with food. As a result of this struggle, behaviors such as severe restriction of food intake, obsessive exercising, binging, and purging can occur. Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or economic status and often can also affect their family members and loved ones. The physiological consequences of eating disorders can be fatal if they are not identified and treated appropriately. This chapter will review different types of eating disorders and discuss common assessment findings, treatments, and related nursing interventions.
