An adolescent is diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and is hospitalized for severe malnutrition. Which body mass index (BMI) measurement would the nurse observe upon assessment of this client?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by severe weight loss and malnutrition. A BMI of 16 or less is considered severely underweight and is common in individuals with anorexia nervosa. A BMI between 17-18.5 is considered underweight, 18.5-24.9 is considered normal, 25-29.9 is considered overweight, and 30 or higher is considered obese. Therefore, the client in this scenario would likely have a BMI of 16 or less.

An Adolescent Is Diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and Is Hospitalized