A nurse is admitting a client who has anorexia nervosa. Which of the following statements should the nurse expect from this client?
A.
“I don’t eat because I do not like the taste of food.”
B.
“I have certain foods, like pizza, that cause me a lot of fear.”
C.
“I restrict myself to 2,000 calories per day.”
D.
“I don’t bother to track the number of calories I eat in a week.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. “I have certain foods, like pizza, that cause me a lot of fear.”
Explanation:
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and an extreme restriction of food intake. Individuals with this disorder often have specific fears and anxieties related to certain foods, which is reflected in option B.
- Fear of Specific Foods: People with anorexia nervosa commonly experience intense fear or anxiety about certain types of food. This fear can be linked to the perception that these foods will lead to weight gain or disrupt their control over their eating habits. For example, foods high in fat or calories, like pizza, may evoke strong negative emotions. This fear is part of the broader psychological struggle with body image and weight control that defines anorexia nervosa. Thus, the statement in option B accurately represents a common experience of individuals with this condition.
- Option Analysis:
- A. “I don’t eat because I do not like the taste of food.” This statement is less characteristic of anorexia nervosa, as individuals with this disorder are often more focused on the fear of gaining weight rather than the taste of food. Disliking food is not the primary reason for their eating behaviors.
- C. “I restrict myself to 2,000 calories per day.” While individuals with anorexia nervosa do restrict their calorie intake, the restriction is typically much more severe and less specific than a set number like 2,000 calories. Many individuals with anorexia nervosa restrict to far fewer calories per day.
- D. “I don’t bother to track the number of calories I eat in a week.” This statement is unlikely, as individuals with anorexia nervosa are often very meticulous about tracking their caloric intake to maintain control over their eating and weight. They frequently monitor and obsess over calorie counts.
In summary, option B aligns with the behavioral and psychological characteristics of anorexia nervosa, as individuals with this disorder often have significant anxieties about specific foods due to their fear of weight gain and loss of control.