A 15-year-old female diagnosed with anorexia nervosa (AN) is admitted to the emergency department. Her mother states that her daughter has not voided in 24 hours and has been lethargic for the last 12 hours. The patient appears cachectic and pale, and her weight is recorded as 78 pounds. She is minimally responsive to painful stimulation. A number of diagnostic tests are obtained.

Which one of these represents the most immediate threat to her life requiring intervention?

a. Serum sodium of 149 mEq
b. Serum potassium of 2.6 mEq
c. Hemoglobin of 6.8 mg
d. Arterial pH of 7.30

The most life-threatening condition is the serum potassium of 2.6 mEq, which is known as hypokalemia, requiring immediate electrolyte repletion and heart monitoring. Thus (option b) is right answer.

Explanation:

The most immediate threat to the life of the 15-year-old female diagnosed with anorexia nervosa (AN) requiring intervention is her serum potassium of 2.6 mEq. Thus (option b) is right answer.

This condition, known as hypokalemia, can lead to life-threatening abnormalities in heart rhythm, muscle weakness, and other serious complications. In such a clinical scenario, the patient requires immediate electrolyte repletion and monitoring of cardiac function to prevent further deterioration of her health.