An adolescent student tells the nurse, "I lost 10 pounds in the last 3 months. I believe I have anorexia." The nurse's response should be based on the following understanding:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should evaluate whether the student's weight loss has led to maintenance body weight that is less than 85% of the expected weight for the student's age and height. This is a key diagnostic criterion for anorexia nervosa. Option A is incorrect as not all adolescent females experience anorexia. Option C is incorrect as physical development can be affected by nutritional status even if it is not immediately apparent. Option D is incorrect as willingness to talk about the issue does not necessarily indicate the absence of anorexia nervosa.

An Adolescent Student Tells the Nurse, "I Lost 10 Pounds