Pitfalls

Patient with eating disorders can appear deceptively well, and often try to conceal their eating behaviours or underplay the severity of their condition.
Patients may try to falsify their weight by drinking excess water or having heavy items in pockets.
It is important to do a cardiovascular examination with a patient in a relaxed state. A low heart rate on examination may drop even further.
Daily electrolyte monitoring is needed when refeeding is started, to monitor for refeeding syndrome.
There is a high correlation of eating disorders with abuse or neglect. Don’t be afraid to ask about home life or any other worries.