The complexities of bariatric care extend far beyond surgical interventions. The need for specialized knowledge and equipment is critical, particularly for patients with a BMI over 30. Dr. Susan Gallagher is a thought leader with a PhD in policy ethics and a certification in bariatric care and safe handling. She has dedicated her career to addressing these challenges.
Dr. Gallagher’s work emphasizes the importance of training and resources tailored to the needs of bariatric patients, who are often underserved within healthcare systems. Among them, many tools that have begun to play an indispensable role are bariatric nurse training manikins like the R42. We spoke to Dr. Gallagher to better understand how simulation-based training using such tools can benefit bariatric patient outcomes.
The Evolution of Bariatric Care and Its Training Imperatives
Bariatric care doesn’t only encompass weight-loss surgery. It pertains to a broad spectrum of medical and ethical considerations – something that is particularly pertinent for patients who require long-term care. Dr. Gallagher has been vocal about the critical gaps in the healthcare system that fall short of fully addressing the needs of this growing patient population.
Obesity is a multifactorial condition.
It can have its roots in genetics, environment, lifestyle, and socio-economic factors. Dr. Gallagher’s extensive experience with patients with obesity displays the need for a shift in how we approach care.
For these individuals, weight management requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. The latest advancements in treatment, including metabolic surgery, GLP-1 medications, and evolving nutritional insights, are promising. However, these interventions must be supported by a healthcare system that is equipped to provide the necessary ongoing care.
Simulation-Based Training in Bariatric Care
Simulation-based training is central to improving the quality of bariatric care. The R42 is designed to foster empathy, sensitivity, and a judgement-free environment when treating and caring for bariatric patients. The ‘R’ stands for realistic, representative, and reflective, while the ‘42’ refers to the statistic that 42% of adults in the United States have a BMI over 30.
Through the use of advanced manikins such as these that replicate the physical and physiological challenges associated with obesity, healthcare providers can also develop the practical skills and confidence needed to care for bariatric patients effectively.
As with all simulation-based training, the R42 extends beyond a teaching tool and plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. In learning environments, bariatric manikins provide a safe space for healthcare professionals to learn and refine techniques for safe patient outcomes.
“Healthcare units equipped with proper training and resources show markedly better outcomes,” Dr. Gallagher told us. “This can include higher levels of empathy and patient satisfaction.”
Above: The R42 allows for the practice of endotracheal tubes and supraglottic airways like LMA and Igel.
The Challenges of Bariatric in Elder Care
As the population ages, the number of elderly patients requiring bariatric care continues to rise. Research published in 2018 found that up to 65% of patients over the age of 65 have a BMI over 30. Further to this, the study showed that 30-40% of all US hospital patients are obese, with many cases underreported in medical records. The need for better awareness and appropriate healthcare strategies was underscored, however, systems are often ill-prepared for the long-term presence of bariatric patients, which can lead to gaps in care.
The integration of bariatric nurse training manikins into elder care training programs is a key step in addressing the issue. For example, specialized training in skin and wound care is crucial, given the higher incidence of pressure ulcers and compromised skin integrity in this patient population.
Above: The R42 displays accurate simulation for skin integrity training.
How Collaboration Can Help
Dr. Gallagher’s dedication to improving bariatric care extends to her support regarding the Bariatric Solutions Conference. This is a multi-disciplinary event that brings together experts from various fields to address the complex needs of bariatric patients. Unlike many conferences that focus on a single aspect of care, this event is designed to integrate all facets of bariatric care, from safe patient handling to mental health and nutrition.
The conference fosters collaboration between vendors, clinicians, and researchers to create a space where knowledge and best practices are shared freely.
‘Own voices’ are also welcomed to the conference, with talks taking place from people with obesity as well as those who have undergone weight loss. The aim here is to gain real, tangible insight into the experiences of bariatric patients in order to destigmatize the patient and normalize the treatment they receive.
Attendance has nearly doubled since the previous year.
There has also been a significant rise in the number of exhibitors, which reflects a growth in recognition of the crucial role of bariatric care. Dr. Gallagher remains committed to maintaining the conference’s collaborative spirit, where the emphasis is on shared learning rather than competition. This ethos is critical to advancing the field of bariatric care.
If you want to attend the Bariatric Solutions Conference or find out more about bariatric care, follow this link. This immersive, interactive and interprofessional conference addresses the not only patient safety, but worker safety as well. Nearly 50% of the conference takes a “hands-on” approach to mobility, respiratory and skin care, critical care and health promotion.
The Broader Applications of Bariatric Care Training
While bariatric care training has traditionally been focused on healthcare settings, there are broader potential applications of the R42 simulation model. Schools, prisons, and emergency services are all environments where the principles of bariatric care can and should be applied.
In emergency services, the need for bariatric care training is equally pressing. First responders often face challenges when dealing with patients with obesity, and the lack of appropriate training and equipment can lead to unsafe situations both for the patient and the responders. In this regard, the progress made in nursing, where safety has become a top priority, is a model to follow.
Expanding the Reach of Bariatric Care Principles
Looking ahead, Dr. Gallagher is committed to expanding the application of bariatric care principles across a wide range of medical specialties and non-healthcare settings. The long-term goal is clear: to integrate bariatric care principles into the broader fabric of healthcare and emergency response training. By doing so, we can ensure that all patients, regardless of size, receive care that is both clinically effective as well as empathetic and respectful.
Above: The R42 simulates realistic neck movement for bariatric patients.
The Development of Bariatric Nurse Training Manikins is Crucial to this Mission
Designed to equip healthcare professionals with skills, empathy, and confidence, the R42 is at the cutting edge of bariatric nurse training manikins. Representing a 320lb female patient, the R42 offers realistic training features, including advanced airway management, articulated limbs for handling practice, and unique elements like vomiting simulation and limited neck movement.
To find out more about the R42, follow this link or get in touch with our team.
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