What assessment finding would not be associated with an eating disorder?

Hyperthermia, which refers to an elevated body temperature, is not typically associated with eating disorders. Eating disorders more commonly lead to physiological changes that are directly related to nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. Conditions like weight fluctuations, dehydration, and lanugo – which is the growth of fine downy hair in response to malnutrition – are all frequently observed in individuals struggling with eating disorders.

Weight fluctuations occur due to patterns of restriction or bingeing, dehydration may result from purging behaviors or inadequate fluid intake, and lanugo can develop as the body attempts to preserve warmth when it is undernourished. In contrast, hyperthermia is generally related to overexertion, environmental factors, or certain medical conditions but is not a direct consequence of the restrictive or purging behaviors associated with eating disorders. Thus, hyperthermia stands out as an assessment finding that is not characteristic of eating disorders.