The role of the nurse practitioner in the diagnosis and management of bulimia nervosa, Part 3: Psychosocial management.

Psychological problems associated with bulimia nervosa affect both the client and the family. The nurse practitioner is often in a position to refer the client to a therapist who has experience in treating clients with eating disorders. The nurse practitioner and the therapist, along with the nutritionist, if available, need to work from the beginning as a team. Each team member must have a distinct role regarding management of specific aspects of client care in order to avoid confusion and attempted manipulation by the client.