Hospitalization of patients with anorexia nervosa: a therapeutic proposal

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that primarily affects young women and has a high morbidity and mortality rate. Hospitalization effectively overcomes the acute phase, prevents progression to chronicity and promotes lasting changes. Our aim is to establish a prior therapeutic contract and systematize hospitalization in three stages comprising: clinical and nutritional approaches, individual and group psychotherapy, family therapy, occupational therapy, body therapy and pharmacotherapy. Because of the multiple determination of anorexia nervosa and the risk involved, treatment must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team.