• Overview: Eating disorders (NHS Choices), Eating disorders (CKS)

• Anorexia: Anorexia nervosa (NHS Choices)

• Bulimia: Bulimia (NHS Choices)

• Binge eating: Binge eating (NHS Choices)

GPs should be able to recognise indicators for an emergency admission for people with anorexia nervosa. These include:

• If BMI is under 15 (or rapid weight loss)

• Hypothermia (under 35.5°C)

• Suicidal ideation or severe self-harm

• Severe electrolyte disturbance (potassium under 3mM)

• Cardiac arrhythmia

• Significant oedema

• Orthostatic hypotension (more than 10mmHg systolic)

• Bradycardia (<50 beats/min)

• Severe intercurrent infection

The other options would also be warranted but would be more likely done as part of her further inpatient assessment.

Resources:

Hjalmarsson C, Daniels NF. Managing anorexia nervosa in primary care. InnovAiT 2021; 14(9): 565–571.

Royal College of Psychiatrists. Medical emergencies in eating disorders (MEED) CR233. 2022.