The patient-practitioner interaction in post bariatric surgery consultations: an interpersonal process recall study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychosocial Health
• Patient-Provider Communication

Background:

• The patient-practitioner relationship is crucial for rehabilitation outcomes.
• Misunderstandings regarding supportive care and outcomes can negatively impact bariatric surgery patients.
• Addressing these interpersonal dynamics is vital for effective post-surgical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mechanisms of dissonance in the patient-practitioner relationship post-bariatric surgery.
• To explore the relational states and shifts occurring in clinical encounters between patients and healthcare practitioners.

Main Methods:

• An Interpersonal Process Recall study was conducted.
• Included patient interviews (11), recorded consultations (10), and video-assisted interviews with patients (10) and practitioners (11).
• Employed dyadic data analysis to identify relational dynamics.

Main Results:

• Three relational themes emerged: 'Playing by the Book,' 'Down the Blind Alley,' and 'Opposite Poles.'
• Consultations promoted self-care but lacked dialogue on psychosocial burdens.
• Conflict avoidance led to emotional distance, limiting the benefits of the encounter for both parties.

Conclusions:

• Explicitly validating patients' emotions regarding body changes and eating is essential for sustained self-care and health gains.
• Prioritizing interpersonal connection in bariatric aftercare can enhance patient engagement and improve clinical outcomes.
• Addressing the tension and differing perspectives between patients and healthcare practitioners is key to successful rehabilitation.