A patient was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. The history shows the patient virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and lost 25% of body weight. The serum potassium is currently 2.7 mg/dL. Which nursing diagnosis applies?
a. Adult failure to thrive related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss
b. Disturbed energy field related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia
c. Ineffective health maintenance related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia
d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements related to reduced oral intake as evidenced by loss of 25% of body weight and hypokalemia
Answer: D