Question

A behavioral program for weight gain is started for a client with anorexia nervosa. Which nursing intervention is most specific to goal attainment? A. Providing emotional support and active listening B. Giving positive rewards for weight gain C. Assisting with identification of maladaptive behaviors D. Initiating tube feedings with high-calorie supplements

Short answer

Answer: Giving positive rewards for weight gain

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Option A

Providing emotional support and active listening is essential in any therapeutic relationship, particularly when working with clients with mental health issues. However, although this is important, it is not the most specific intervention for goal attainment in weight gain for someone with anorexia nervosa. #step 2# - Evaluate Option B

Evaluate Option B

Giving positive rewards for weight gain is a more specific intervention for a client trying to gain weight in a behavioral program. Incentivizing weight gain can help motivate clients to adhere to their prescribed meal plans and make progress towards their goals. This is a good contender for being the most specific intervention related to goal attainment in weight gain. #step 3# - Evaluate Option C

Evaluate Option C

Assisting with the identification of maladaptive behaviors is an important aspect of therapy for clients with anorexia nervosa. However, this intervention is more focused on addressing the underlying psychological issues rather than specifically targeting weight gain. Although it is important, it is not the most specific intervention for goal attainment in weight gain. #step 4# - Evaluate Option D

Evaluate Option D

Initiating tube feedings with high-calorie supplements is an intervention that directly addresses the goal of weight gain for clients with anorexia nervosa. However, this intervention is typically considered for more severe cases where oral feeding is insufficient or not possible. It does not address the behavioral aspects of anorexia nervosa as much as other interventions. #step 5# - Choose the Most Specific Intervention

Choose the Most Specific Intervention

Based on the analysis of each of the four options, option B - Giving positive rewards for weight gain is the most specific intervention for goal attainment in weight gain for a client with anorexia nervosa undergoing a behavioral program. This intervention directly targets the goal of weight gain, while also addressing the behavioral aspects of anorexia nervosa.

Key concepts

Behavioral Program Weight Gain

Implementing a behavioral program that encourages weight gain in individuals with anorexia nervosa is a targeted approach beneficial for sustained recovery. Such programs focus on establishing a pattern of regular eating and gradually increasing caloric intake.

An effective strategy within these programs is to provide positive rewards for weight gain. Rewards can take multiple forms, such as verbal encouragement, little tokens of achievement, or privileges that resonate with the individual's values and interests. These tangible incentives serve as motivation to adhere to meal plans and can catalyze a positive change in their eating behaviors.

Frequently, these behavioral programs are developed collaboratively, involving both the healthcare team and the client's input to tailor the rewards to individual preferences, enhancing the personal relevance and effectiveness of the intervention. It is crucial, however, to ensure that the rewards do not become the sole focus for the client but rather a component of a comprehensive treatment plan emphasizing overall health and wellness.

Therapeutic Relationship Mental Health

A therapeutic relationship is the foundation upon which mental health treatment is built, especially when dealing with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. Establishing trust, rapport, and unconditional positive regard is paramount for a successful therapeutic engagement.

Nurses and mental health professionals are trained to utilize strategies such as emotional support and active listening to foster a safe environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings. This nurturing relationship encourages clients to engage in open dialogue about their experiences, struggles, and achievements without fear of judgment.

Within this context, the therapeutic relationship is instrumental in assessing progress, recognizing barriers to recovery, and supporting clients as they navigate the challenges of overcoming anorexia nervosa. It also plays a critical role in helping the individual to build self-esteem and develop coping strategies to maintain long-term health improvements.

Maladaptive Behaviors Identification

Identifying maladaptive behaviors is crucial in the treatment of anorexia nervosa, as these behaviors often serve as impediments to recovery. Maladaptive behaviors in the context of anorexia may include excessive exercise, ritualistic eating patterns, or avoiding food altogether.

Nurses play a vital role in the assessment and identification of these behaviors. Through careful observation, conversation, and collaboration with other healthcare providers, nurses can highlight specific behaviors that need to be addressed.

Recognizing the Signs

Recognition typically involves the client in their own care, promoting awareness and self-reflection, which is crucial for modifying behaviors.

Developing Coping Strategies

Once identified, the treatment plan may include cognitive-behavioral strategies to challenge and change these maladaptive behaviors.

This process is integral to the clients' ability to engage in healthier behaviors that support both their physical and psychological well-being, ultimately aiding in their journey towards recovery.