Complications of Bariatric Surgery and Nursing Care
Gülsüme Satır, Seda Sümer DalkıranThe incidence of obesity is increasing worldwide, and obesity is recognized as a public health problem. Obesity negatively affects the quality of life of individuals because it causes chronic diseases. Obesity is also known to cause psychiatric disorders. Although there are multiple options for the treatment of obesity, bariatric surgery is considered an effective and long-term method for treating obesity. Furthermore, the incidence of chronic diseases reportedly decreases with postoperative weight loss. With the advancements in technology, bariatric surgery is now being performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is associated with a shorter hospital stay and less pain. Thus, the number of bariatric surgeries performed has increased worldwide in recent years. The incidence of complications after bariatric surgery is high in patients with coexisting chronic diseases. Early complications are observed within the 1st month after surgery, and late complications are observed after the 1st month. Bleeding, atelectasis, venous thromboembolism, anastomotic leakage, and rhabdomyolysis are early complications of bariatric surgery. Dumping syndrome, marginal ulcer, and nutritional and vitamin deficiencies are late complications of bariatric surgery. Nurses are essential members of the multidisciplinary teams for bariatric surgery, and they play an important role in patient care, patient education, and early recognition of complications. Nurses should have sufficient knowledge to provide high-quality care and reduce possible complications. In this review article, we have discussed the nursing interventions necessary to prevent the development of complications in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.