Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Definition:

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder in which the person binge eats (eats excessive amounts of food) then purges to get rid of the excess food. The person may purge through self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or through use of diuretics and laxatives.

Cause/Risk Factors:

The exact cause of bulimia nervosa is unknown, but there are several risk factors that may contribute to the development.

Risk factors include:

• Existing mental disorder or distorted view of reality

• Genetics

• Overprotective parents or high expectations from parents

• Social expectations and pressure

• Perfectionism

• Anger problems

• Depression

• Impulsiveness

• Verbal abuse

• Low self-esteem

• Career that requires a thin physique (modeling, acting, etc.)

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Monitor or assess attitude towards eating and food – Rationale: This helps in diagnosis and treatment plan.

4. Monitor nutritional lab values (albumin, CBC, electrolytes, etc.) – Rationale: Pts with bulimia nervosa may be malnourished as indicated by abnormal lab values.

5. Consult dietician for further assessment and recommendations regarding food planning – Rationale: Dieticians have a greater understanding of the nutritional values of food. Consulting them can aid in proper meal planning.

6. Monitor pt during and after eating – Rationale: Pt’s with bulimia nervosa may go to the bathroom right after eating to self-induce vomiting.

7. Encourage participation in talk therapy – Rationale: This can help the patient identify underlying cause of their disorder and talk through their feelings.

8. Encourage participation in group therapy – Rationale: Talking to people that relate to them can help the pt and others in the group feel as though they are not alone and help them in recovery.

9. Administer Prozac as ordered – Rationale: SSRIs can be effective in treating accompanying depression. o Monitor for suicidal tendencies – Rationale: This is a serious side effect that should be reported