In initial contact for management of eating disorders, which approach is recommended?

In initial contact for management of eating disorders, which approach is recommended?

• A. Initiate contact without rapport
• B. Have the athlete sign a contract immediately
• C. Approach the athlete with sensitivity and respect while adhering to HIPAA
• D. Publicly document observations in front of teammates

Answer: (C)

Initiating care for an eating disorder works best when you approach the athlete with sensitivity and respect and protect their privacy throughout the process. A private, nonjudgmental conversation builds trust, makes the athlete feel supported rather than exposed, and encourages openness about symptoms and concerns. Adhering to HIPAA means sharing information only with people who need to know and with the athlete’s consent, keeping medical details confidential, and safeguarding records. This combination creates a safe space for the athlete to engage in treatment and follow-up, which is crucial in the early stages of management. Why the other approaches don’t fit: starting without rapport can shut down communication and erode trust; pressing for a contract at the first contact can feel coercive and undermine the therapeutic alliance; publicly documenting observations in front of teammates violates confidentiality and can increase stigma and fear.

Initiating care for an eating disorder works best when you approach the athlete with sensitivity and respect and protect their privacy throughout the process. A private, nonjudgmental conversation builds trust, makes the athlete feel supported rather than exposed, and encourages openness about symptoms and concerns. Adhering to HIPAA means sharing information only with people who need to know and with the athlete’s consent, keeping medical details confidential, and safeguarding records. This combination creates a safe space for the athlete to engage in treatment and follow-up, which is crucial in the early stages of management.

Why the other approaches don’t fit: starting without rapport can shut down communication and erode trust; pressing for a contract at the first contact can feel coercive and undermine the therapeutic alliance; publicly documenting observations in front of teammates violates confidentiality and can increase stigma and fear.