(^468) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
of control over eating, followed by some compensatory mechanism to prevent
weight gain. This compensatory mechanism may include self-induced vomiting,
excessive exercise, laxative use, diuretic use, enema use, or fasting. While eating
disorders overall are much more common in women, males are more likely to have
bulimia than anorexia.
PROGNOSIS
Patients may need to be treated periodically for electrolyte disturbances, cardiac
rhythm disturbances, or renal dysfunction. The medical management of the patient
needs to be incorporated with the cognitive behavioral therapy to best meet the needs
of the patient. The symptoms of disease may recur.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Repeated binge eating followed by compensatory behavior (vomiting, exces-
sive exercise, laxative use, fasting) - Electrolyte imbalances
- Amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea due to loss of body fat
- Cardiovascular disturbance
- Erosion of enamel on back of teeth due to repetitive vomiting
- Callus formation on knuckles from self-induced vomiting
- Gastrointestinal disturbances due to repetitive purging
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Electrolytes—abnormalities of Na (sodium), K (potassium), Cl (chloride),
and CO 2 (carbon dioxide). - Calcium—abnormality as stores are depleted and intake is insufficient.
- Magnesium—abnormality as stores are depleted and intake is insufficient.
- Phosphorus—abnormality as stores are depleted and intake is insufficient.
- BUN (blood urea nitrogen) elevated if fluid depleted.
- Elevated amylase and normal lipase if vomiting.