Complications of weight loss surgery: implications for critical care nursing

Weight-loss surgery (WLS) patients present a relatively new population for the health care system. Lack of clinical information about the WLS patient and the postoperative WLS patient can negatively affect quality of care and put the patient at unnecessary risk. Postoperatively, the bariatric patient is often admitted with complex care management requirements that differ from those of other surgical patients. Acute and critical care nurses must have a thorough understanding of the health implications of obesity, be familiar with common WLS procedures, and remain vigilant regarding the potential postoperative complications that can occur in this particular patient population.