Intermediate Care

Low BMI from primarily psychological factors

 

This information is taken from the RCHT CLinical Guideline for the Management of Low Body Weight Patients with a Primarily Psychological Cause

 

Referral Criteria

 

Emergency and red flags

Consider need for medical admission for physical stabilisation, urgent weight restoration and management of refeeding syndrome risk. Discuss with Acute GP.

 

· BMI <14

· BP <80/50

· Postural drop >20 mmHg

· HR <40bpm

· Temperature <34.5c

· Electrolyte abnormalities: K <2.5, Na <130, Po4 <0.5

 

Consider MHA/MCA if patient declines admission and urgent need identified.

 

The eating disorder service is not an acute service but can be contacted for advice on concerning presentations.

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Outside of these referral criteria, see the RMS referral criteria for urgent, and routine referrals.