Bulimia Nervosa

In this lesson, we will define bulimia nervosa and the causes and risk factors for developing this eating disorder.  We will take an in depth look at the signs and symptoms of bulimia that nurses will be assessing for and how they are alike and different from the symptoms of anorexia nervosa.  We will summarize the cycle of binging and purging common with bulimia nervosa and identify nursing interventions including medications and treatments for this disorder. Finally we will go over potential serious complications clients with bulimia nervosa can experience and important client education topics.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Define bulimia nervosa
2. Describe signs and symptoms of bulimia nervosa
3. Determine nursing interventions and medications used to treat anorexia nervosa
4. Compare and contrast anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa