Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 90%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data for a health history from a client who has bulimia nervosa. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, is a common finding in individuals with bulimia nervosa, especially those who engage in frequent vomiting or use laxatives. Purging behaviors can lead to significant electrolyte imbalances, including potassium depletion, which can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and cardiac arrhythmias.