Anorexia nervosa. Fluid-electrolyte and acid-base manifestations

Psychiatric nurses need to know about the biologic, psychologic, and social implications of anorexia nervosa; however, the current nursing literature presents little information regarding the physiologic aspects of the syndrome. The pathophysiologic basis for the clinical manifestations of acid-base and fluid-electrolyte disturbances associated with anorexia nervosa are examined, and, when appropriate, the implications for nursing assessment are discussed.