Abstract
Background
Few evidence-based studies addressing metabolic and bariatric surgery patient education (MBS-PE) practices exist.
Objective
Examine how preoperative MBS-PE is provided nationally.
Setting
National Certification Program.
Method
Descriptive analysis of an internet survey distributed in 2021 to Integrated Health Professionals (IHP) of American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and active Certified Bariatric Nurses (CBNs).
Results
The sample (n=269), representing 43 states, was divided into two groups: nurses (65.8%) and Other Integrated Health Professionals [OIHP] (34.2%). Over 74% in both groups rated 15 education content areas as “very important” or “extremely important”. Content areas were developed “most of time” or “always” (by nurses and OIHP) utilizing clinical experience (79.0% and 75.0%), implementing information from literature (69.3% and 75.3%), and theory (55.4% and 76.1%). Educational materials were delivered through printed materials (95.2%), website/portal (69.5%), and social media (53.2%). Delivery methods (used by nurses and OIHP) included didactic presentation (71.2%, 77.2%), behavioral modification (60.5%, 77.2%), and motivational interviewing delivery (47.5%, 69.6%). Delivery settings were “most of the time” or “always” conducted individually by nurses (76.3%) and OIHP (66.3%). The effectiveness of MBS knowledge acquired through education was evaluated by 62.1%. Informal discussions, written tests, and quality metrics were utilized predominantly to identify knowledge gaps. A majority perceived preoperative MBS-PE to be moderately or highly related to surgical outcomes.
Conclusion
Results provide insights on preoperative MBS-PE practices from IHP, offering opportunities for clinicians to reflect on, incorporate recommended practice changes, and research patient education practices using educational constructs of content, delivery methods, knowledge measurement, and clinical outcomes.
Authors
- Karen Diane Groller, PhD RN CV-BC CMSRN
- Brenna Curley, PhD
- William Gourash, PhD CRNP RN CBN