Acceptability and tolerability of a meal-based, rapid refeeding, behavioral weight restoration protocol for anorexia nervosa

Angela S. Guarda, Marita Cooper, Allisyn Pletch, Lori Laddaran, Graham W. Redgrave, Colleen C. Schreyer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: Safe, tolerable, effective approaches to weight restoration are needed for adults with anorexia nervosa (AN). We examined weight outcomes and patient satisfaction with an integrated, inpatient-partial hospitalization, meal-based behavioral program that rapidly weight restores a majority of patients. Method: Consecutively discharged inpatients (N = 149) treated on weight gain protocol completed an anonymous questionnaire assessing treatment satisfaction at inpatient discharge. Responders (107/149) rated their satisfaction with program components, feeling included in treatment, and likelihood of returning, or recommending the program to others. Clinical and demographic data were abstracted by chart review on all cases. Results: Over 70% of adult patients met BMI≥19 kg/m2 by program discharge. Mean inpatient rate of gain was 1.85 kg/week (SD = 0.89). A majority (83.2%) would recommend the program to others and 71.4% endorsed a willingness to return if needed. The behavioral treatment focus was rated highly by 82.9% of respondents and was the strongest predictor of likelihood of referring others. Discussion: Results indicate a behaviorally focused, integrated, meal-based specialty program for eating disorders that includes rapid weight gain is acceptable to most participants. Data have implications for quality care, outcome reporting, and cost-effectiveness of inpatient behavioral weight restoration programs for individuals with AN.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2032-2037
Number of pages6
JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders
Volume53
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2020

Keywords

  • acceptability
  • anorexia nervosa
  • inpatient treatment
  • outcomes
  • patient satisfaction
  • refeeding
  • tolerability behavioral contingency management
  • weight restoration

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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