ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To provide physicians and nurses with an overview of the impact of obesity on postoperative wound healing and how preplanning protocols can minimize skin and wound care problems in this patient population. TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians and nurses with an interest in reducing skin and wound care problems in their patients who are obese. OBJECTIVES: After reading the article and taking the test, the participant will be able to: 1. Identify obesity-related changes in body systems and how these impede wound healing. 2. Identify complications of postoperative wound healing in obese patients and the assessments and intervention strategies that can reduce these complications. 3. Identify skin and wound care considerations for obese patients and the role of preplanning protocols in avoiding problems.
Subject(s)
Leg Ulcer , Obesity, Morbid , Pressure Ulcer , Surgical Wound Dehiscence , Surgical Wound Infection , Wound Healing , Bandages , Cutaneous Fistula/etiology , Cutaneous Fistula/prevention & control , Female , Gastric Bypass/adverse effects , Humans , Leg Ulcer/etiology , Leg Ulcer/prevention & control , Middle Aged , Nursing Assessment , Obesity, Morbid/complications , Obesity, Morbid/surgery , Postoperative Care/methods , Postoperative Care/nursing , Pressure Ulcer/etiology , Pressure Ulcer/prevention & control , Risk Factors , Skin Care/instrumentation , Skin Care/methods , Skin Care/nursing , Surgical Wound Dehiscence/etiology , Surgical Wound Dehiscence/prevention & control , Surgical Wound Infection/etiology , Surgical Wound Infection/prevention & controlABSTRACT
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect wound healing. High risk factors for the obese patients include infection, seromas, anastomatic leaks, and incision dehiscence. Tissue perfusion is an issue of great concern and is a key factor in most assessments. Obesity adds another dimension to the needs of the patient and presents challenges to nurses. From routine evaluations to specialized assessments with attention to bariatric equipment needs, a thorough understanding of wound healing and potential problems of obese patients, and knowledge of interventions is needed. Nonjudgmental attitudes are imperative in planning care for the obese patients. Following a review of physiological needs and nursing interventions, a case study details one woman's surgical complications.
