Body mass index is a ratio created between the height and weight of a patient. The equation to find this number is weight divided by height squared; then you multiply that number by 703. This number then places you into a weight category. These categories are underweight, normal, overweight, obese and morbidly obese. Bariatric patients are those who are morbidly obese and have a body mass index of 40 or greater (McFadden). When you have a bariatric patient, or morbidly obese patient, there are certain modifications that need to be taken into consideration. One of the main considerations that needs to take place is all the specialized equipment that needs to be used. Most standardized equipment cannot support the weight of bariatric patients.
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This may include things such as ankle weights and gait belts. You need to take into consideration the girth of the patient’s different body parts. Because of the increased adipose tissue ankle weights may not strap around the patient’s ankles. Same goes with the gait belt. It may not be able to strap safely around the patient’s waist or under their arms. You may have to find a larger gait belt or improvise with other materials to have the same effect that you will be able to grab ahold of your patient if need be. Depending on the patient’s abilities, you may need an aide or some other person for assistance with guarding that you may not need with a non-bariatric patient at this same skill level. This is to protect your own body as well as the patient all at the same time. Another consideration to make with bariatric patients is where you take and treat the patient. You may have to modify treatment to be performed within their room. You must know where bariatric equipment is within your clinic as well as consider your patient’s abilities as to whether or not they can make it to a suitable commode in time if need …show more content…
These patients may be battling depression. They could also feel worthless or be bullied because of their size and situation. You must be able to talk them through this as you are treating them and may be able to find ways that help them cope with whatever they may be dealing with. What they are going through is tough situation that really wears on a person. You as a therapist must be understanding and supportive of the patient and their unique situation. They are still a person and you must be sensitive to their feelings and
This may include things such as ankle weights and gait belts. You need to take into consideration the girth of the patient’s different body parts. Because of the increased adipose tissue ankle weights may not strap around the patient’s ankles. Same goes with the gait belt. It may not be able to strap safely around the patient’s waist or under their arms. You may have to find a larger gait belt or improvise with other materials to have the same effect that you will be able to grab ahold of your patient if need be. Depending on the patient’s abilities, you may need an aide or some other person for assistance with guarding that you may not need with a non-bariatric patient at this same skill level. This is to protect your own body as well as the patient all at the same time. Another consideration to make with bariatric patients is where you take and treat the patient. You may have to modify treatment to be performed within their room. You must know where bariatric equipment is within your clinic as well as consider your patient’s abilities as to whether or not they can make it to a suitable commode in time if need …show more content…
These patients may be battling depression. They could also feel worthless or be bullied because of their size and situation. You must be able to talk them through this as you are treating them and may be able to find ways that help them cope with whatever they may be dealing with. What they are going through is tough situation that really wears on a person. You as a therapist must be understanding and supportive of the patient and their unique situation. They are still a person and you must be sensitive to their feelings and