CHALLENGES OF EATING DISORDERS IN PSYCHIATRIC INPATIENT CARE AT A GENERAL HOSPITAL: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Eating disorders are characterized by cognitive and behavioral alterations accompanied by subjective distress and biopsychosocial impairment. This study aims to report on the nursing team's experience in implementing care for a hospitalized patient with an eating disorder and to analyze the assertive measures adopted to improve patient adherence and the implementation of necessary restrictive measures. This is a qualitative, descriptive study—specifically an experience report—detailing the nursing team's experience while caring for a patient with an eating disorder admitted to a university hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between January and August 2025. The study offers insights to other nursing professionals and mental health services facing similar situations, aiming to foster a supportive approach and contribute to improving nursing care for psychiatric patients across various contexts. There is a clear need for further discussion on this subject, particularly given the scarcity of existing references and publications.