Nursing care for a patient with anorexia – case study

Abstract

Background. Anorexia (anorexia nervosa, AN) is a mental disorder classified as an eating disorder, characterized by intentional weight loss through food denial and excessive exercise. Objectives. To show nursing problems occurring in a patient with anorexia, staying in a psychiatric ward. Material and methods. The work describes the individual case of a 16-year-old patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa hospitalized in emergency in the Psychiatric Department. The data concerning the patient’s physical and mental health were obtained from the analysis of medical records, observations and interview with the patient. Results. During the hospitalization of the patient at the psychiatric ward a target body weight of 41 kg was achieved and somatic complications of anorexia were prevented. Conclusions. 1. In the care of a patient with anorexia the nurse should take into account the biopsychosocial needs of the patient. 2. In anorexia treatment the basic form of treatment is psychotherapy, while pharmacotherapy plays the smallest role. 3. It is important to involve the family in the treatment process and to educate them in case of relapse.