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Bulimia nervosa: knowledge, awareness, and skill levels among advanced practice nurses
Jacquelin R Dichter1, Jayne Cohen, Phyllis M Connolly
1Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California, USA. jacqui_1975@yahoo.com
Purpose:
To examine the knowledge, awareness, and self-perceived skill levels regarding bulimia nervosa (BN) among advance practice nurses (APNs) caring for young female patients.
Data Sources:
Two hundred APNs of various nurse practitioner (NP) specialties were surveyed with a mailed questionnaire. One hundred and twenty-one (61%) surveys were returned and analyzed.
Conclusions:
Results demonstrated that APNs are knowledgeable and aware about BN. There were several statistically significant relationships among awareness and self-perceived skill levels. Pediatric NPs were found to be the most aware of BN in their young female patients.
Implications For Practice:
The incidence of eating disorders is on the rise. Bulimia nervosa, a common secretive illness, poses a significant challenge for APNs potentially leading to missed diagnosis. There is a paucity of research exploring this issue. Study findings provide evidence to enhance curricula on eating disorders in academic and continuing education programs and guidance for future research.