Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has bulimia nervosa and has stopped purging behavior. The client tells the nurse that she is afraid she is going to gain weight. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. "Many clients are concerned about their weight. However the dietitian will ensure that you don't get too many calories in your diet."
B. "Instead of worrying about your weight, try to focus on other problems at this time."
C. "I understand you have concerns about your weight, but first, let's talk about your recent accomplishments."
D. "You are not overweight, and the staff will ensure that you do not gain weight while you are in the hospital. We know that is important to you."

Answer 1

For a client with bulimia nervosa worried about weight gain, the nurse should acknowledge their fear and redirect focus to positive accomplishments, aiding the recovery process.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate response for a nurse caring for a client who has bulimia nervosa and is concerned about gaining weight after stopping purging behavior would be option C: "I understand you have concerns about your weight, but first, let's talk about your recent accomplishments."

This response is supportive and acknowledges the client's concerns while redirecting their attention to the positive progress they have made in their recovery journey. It encourages the client to focus on their achievements rather than on the fear of weight gain, which is a central aspect of their eating disorder.