Explore More Nursing Specialties
BASIC DESCRIPTION
A bariatric nurse provides holistic care to those patients who have a diagnosis of morbid obesity. It also includes care of patients undergoing bariatric surgeries.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurse preparation and Basic Life Support certification are required; certification as bariatric nurse is offered by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED
â– Excellent assessment and critical thinking skills
â– Sensitivity to the needs of patients who are morbidly obese, and their families
â– Knowledge of evidence-based practice related to bariatric medicine
RELATED WEB SITES AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
â– National Association of Bariatric Nurses (http://www.bariatricnurses.org/aboutus.html)
â– American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (https://asmbs.org/)