Medical Emergencies in Eating Disorders

In this weeks episode Han is joined by Vicky Vella.

With Vicky, we begin by speaking about the current work they do in order to support medical staff working with individuals with eating disorders, ranging from dietitians to nurses to obstetricians, and the role that they may play in eating disorder treatment.

We then discuss the new guidelines, MEED, which stands for Medical Emergencies in Eating Disorders. The new guidance from the Royal College of Psychiatrists is based on the advice and recommendations of an Expert Working Group provides. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest evidence associated with eating disorders, including highlighting the importance and role of healthcare professionals from right across the spectrum recognising their responsibilities in this area.

We talk about managing compensatory behaviours, refeeding syndrome, and NG tube feeding, and how they should be managed for eating disorder patients. We also speak about parental support and how parents can support their loved ones when admitted to hospital.

To find out more about Vicky and the training they provide, you can find them on Twitter @VickyVella2.

The MEED guidelines can be found here: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/improving-care/campaigning-for-better-mental-health-policy/college-reports/2022-college-reports/cr233

Please note that this episode discusses eating disorder behaviours and inpatient admission that may be required. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.