A patient has a maladaptive response to eating regulation.Findings include the following: T,96.6° F; BP,68/40; P,40; R,20; poor skin turgor; admits to restricting intake to 350 calories daily; and diagnostic testing reveals serum potassium of 2.9 mEq/L and urine specific gravity of 1.028.What is the highest priority nursing diagnosis for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is malnourished and is experiencing dehydration,as evidenced by the low BP,poor skin turgor,and high urine specific gravity.For this reason,highest priority should be placed on restoring circulating volume,followed by increasing caloric intake.When the primary physiological needs are being met (according to Maslow),secondary needs such as body image can be addressed,and powerlessness can be explored if it applies.

A Patient Has a Maladaptive Response to Eating Regulation