Managing Care of Critically Ill Bariatric Patients.

Nearly 160 million Americans are overweight, obese, or morbidly obese. Morbid obesity and its numerous comorbidities are threats to a person's health. Moreover, hospitalized individuals living with adiposity-based chronic conditions are at risk for certain immobility hazards. Many individuals who are morbidly obese look to metabolic surgery as a means for achieving sustainable weight loss. This article addresses critical care needs of people living with excess weight or weight maldistribution, along with specific needs of those undergoing metabolic surgery. ©2017 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.