What is the top priority in the care of a client with anorexia nervosa?

The top priority in the care of a client with anorexia nervosa is ensuring the intake of enough food to keep them alive. This condition is characterized by severe dietary restriction leading to significant weight loss and malnutrition, which can pose life-threatening risks such as electrolyte imbalances, heart complications, and organ failure.

Focusing on food intake is essential as it directly addresses the most critical aspect of the disorder—malnutrition. Without sufficient nutrition, the client's physical health deteriorates, which can complicate treatment and increase the risk of serious consequences. Prioritizing food intake helps to stabilize the client’s physical condition and create a foundation for further therapeutic interventions, including psychological support and behavioral modifications.

While elements like psychological evaluations and maintaining a food journal are indeed important components of comprehensive care for anorexia nervosa, they are part of a broader approach that can only be effectively implemented once the immediate risk to life is addressed through adequate nutrition. Establishing a regular exercise routine is contraindicated until the client’s weight becomes stable as exercise can exacerbate the condition in someone who is malnourished. Thus, ensuring sufficient food intake is paramount.