The nurse is caring for a client with anorexia nervosa who is 163 cm tall and weighs 41 kg. Laboratory tests reveal hypokalemia and iron-deficiency anemia. Which of the following nursing diagnoses has the highest priority for the client?
A)Risk for activity intolerance as evidenced by physical deconditioning
B)Risk for electrolyte imbalance as evidenced by insufficient fluid volume
C)Ineffective health maintenance related to ineffective coping strategies (obsession with body image)
D)Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements related to insufficient dietary intake

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's hypokalemia may lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias. The other diagnoses also are appropriate for this client but are not associated with immediate risk for fatal complications.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Anorexia Nervosa