Bulimia nervosa: knowledge, awareness, and skill levels among advanced practice nurses.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the knowledge, awareness, and self-perceived skill levels regarding bulimia nervosa (BN) among advance practice nurses (APNs) caring for young female patients.


METHODS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Dichter
Jacquelin R
JR
Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California, USA. jacqui_1975@yahoo.com
Cohen
Jayne
J
Connolly
Phyllis M
PM
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002032:Bulimia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D002140:California; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D019359:Knowledge; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000523:psychology*; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires