skip to main content

Anorexia nervosa with medical instability — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardAdolescent health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child health, ethicsAnorexia nervosa with medical instabilityRACP Paediatrics

A 16-year-old with weight loss presents with dizziness and amenorrhoea. BMI is below the 1st centile, heart rate is 42/min, there is postural hypotension and potassium is 2.9 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Admit for medical stabilisation with eating disorder specialist involvement

Bradycardia, postural hypotension, severe underweight and hypokalaemia are medical instability features in an eating disorder, requiring admission and monitored refeeding. Antidepressants alone do not address acute medical risk. The pearl is that medical stabilisation and psychiatric care must proceed together in severe restrictive eating disorders.

Reference: RCH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Eating disorders; Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG)