Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Donald Goodwin

Abstract

Many researchers have suggested positive patient-health provider relationships can positively impact patient outcomes. A few focused explicitly on bariatric weight loss surgery (BWLS) professional-patient interactions. This study is significant because BWLS is a recommended tool to combat obesity. The purpose of this study was to analyze the perceptions of BWLS education nurses regarding their patient encounters. This mixed methods research study used an online survey combining quantitative Likert scale questions and open-ended qualitative questions, with social cognitive theory as the theoretical foundation. These explored viewpoints relate to their patient relations expressed by a health professional. Health professional beliefs incorporated into patient interactions has merit within BWLS continuum from presurgery requirements, to the procedure, and post-surgery lifestyle. Many respondents are employed in obesity services programs and received 'snowballs' from other contacted health professionals. The analyzed written response word clouds favor patient-focused care. Participation reluctance by not answering or skipping short answer perspective questions was a quantitative trend. Data revealed survey specific noticeable qualitative tendencies favorable toward patient-centered care and patient health accountability. The anticipated positive social change is a better understanding of issues surrounding the choice for and against BWLS and improved healthcare and health professional-patient communications.

Download

Share

 
COinS