RN-test Your Knowledge Of Bariatric care For Unit Based RN's

All of the symptoms/findings listed should be reported to the physician when caring for a post-op bariatric patient. Abdominal or back pain unrelieved by pain medication, nausea/vomiting, abnormal heart rate and blood pressure, fever, decreased urine output, black tarry stools or unusual bleeding or bruising, sudden chest pain or shortness of breath, and motor oil leakage (if patient has a drain) can all be signs of complications or problems following bariatric surgery. It is important to report these symptoms/findings to the physician for further evaluation and appropriate management.

Bariatric surgery is a major surgical procedure that involves significant risks. Hemorrhage refers to excessive bleeding, ulcers are open sores in the stomach or intestines, bowel obstruction is a blockage in the digestive system, anastomotic leak is a leakage at the site where two parts of the intestine are joined, and pulmonary emboli are blood clots in the lungs. All of these complications can occur after bariatric surgery, making "All of the above" the correct answer.

The given statement is true. Management of an anastomotic leak, which is a complication that can occur after surgery, typically involves several steps. Upper GI and abdominal CT scans are usually performed to diagnose the leak and assess its severity. Surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the leak and prevent further complications. It is also important to notify a bariatric surgeon, as they specialize in weight loss surgery and are experienced in managing complications specific to bariatric procedures.

The correct answer is "All of the above" because all the mentioned options, such as the bariatric resource binder available on units, the contact information for the bariatric coordinator Martha Lopez, and the 5North nursing staff, are examples of bariatric resources available to staff.

The potential sources of sepsis/fever in a bariatric patient can include a leak in the surgical site, pneumonia, urinary tract infection (UTI), wound infection, and abdominal abscess. All of these conditions can lead to an infection, which can cause sepsis or fever in the patient. Therefore, all of the above options are correct potential sources of sepsis/fever in a bariatric patient.

The correct answer is Upper GI with Gastrografin, Physician to deflate band, IV hydration. This is because an upper GI with Gastrografin can help identify any complications or issues with the gastric band placement that may be causing the abdominal pain. Deflating the band under the guidance of a physician can relieve any pressure or discomfort that may be contributing to the pain. IV hydration is important to maintain fluid balance and support overall recovery.

The Bariatric Post Op Phase I Diet for post-op bariatric patients includes a hi-protein drink (Isopure) for adequate protein intake, water for hydration, and broth for additional nutrients and hydration. This phase focuses on consuming clear liquids and easily digestible foods to allow the stomach to heal after surgery. The inclusion of a hi-protein drink helps meet the protein needs of the patient while they are on a restricted diet.

The correct answer is "Call and consult GI physician." This is because the patient has already undergone gastric bypass surgery, which is a procedure performed by a GI physician. Therefore, it is expected that the GI physician would already be involved in the patient's care and would be the appropriate healthcare professional to consult in this situation. The other options, such as consulting a bariatric surgeon, performing a CT with oral and IV contrast, and working up possible internal hernia and small bowel obstruction, are all expected interventions in this scenario.

The fluid intake goal for a post-op bariatric patient right after surgery is to consume at least 64 oz. of fluids per day. Additionally, they should drink at least 1 oz. of fluids every 5 minutes, increasing the frequency as tolerated, with a minimum of 15 minutes between each intake. This information is provided on the Bariatric Post Op Diet Progression form.

Tachycardia greater than 120 bpm can be a possible sign or symptom of post-operative leak. Tachycardia refers to a rapid heart rate, and if it exceeds 120 beats per minute, it may indicate a potential complication such as a leak. This increased heart rate can occur due to the body's response to inflammation or infection caused by the leak. Therefore, monitoring the heart rate is crucial in identifying and managing post-operative leaks.