Experiences of people undergoing bariatric surgery: an empirical basis for nursing care

Abstract

Objective: To structure a nursing care plan by analyzing the experiences of people in the late postoperative period of bariatric surgery. Methods: This is a descriptive research conducted with 12 participants, in two stages with specific approaches: qualitative analysis of the participants' discourse; and methodological for the construction of the nursing care plan. Results: Patients undergoing bariatric surgery have as main difficulties adapting to the new lifestyle and body changes, while the most significant aspects are the recovery of self-esteem and improvement of body self-image. It was also noted the absence and the huge potential for the performance of professional nurses. Conclusion: Professional nurses should monitor patients undergoing bariatric surgery through a structured care plan, which has the potential to optimize lifestyle changes and promote quality of life, increasing the success rate of the procedure.