ABSTRACT
The recent and steady rise in the U.S. obesity index has resulted in a consumer-driven market for more effective treatment interventions for the morbidly obese population. Given the relatively poor outcomes associated with traditional approaches for treating obesity, such as diet programs, behavioral modification, and pharmacotherapy, weight loss surgical procedures represent a safe and effective option for those who meet selection criteria. To provide optimal treatment and consumer education, psychiatric nurses need to be well informed about the psychological and physiological aspects of these surgical procedures. This article clarifies six common misconceptions related to weight loss surgery.
Subject(s)
Bariatric Surgery , Obesity, Morbid/surgery , Adaptation, Psychological , Adult , Bariatric Surgery/adverse effects , Bariatric Surgery/methods , Bariatric Surgery/nursing , Bariatric Surgery/psychology , Feeding Behavior , Female , Humans , Middle Aged , Obesity, Morbid/psychology , Recurrence , SafetyABSTRACT
Recent interest in weight loss surgery has increased dramatically, largely due to the rising prevalence of severe obesity and the use of less invasive laparoscopic surgical procedures. Physiological postoperative outcomes are easily measured and have been well documented in the literature. The impact of weight loss surgery on psychosocial, behavioral, and psychological function is less clearly understood. Few long-term studies of postoperative weight loss surgery patients in the literature measure emotional health and quality of life. This article discusses some of the psychosocial, behavioral, and psychiatric issues and challenges patients commonly encounter following weight loss surgery.