Obesity: impediment to postsurgical wound healing.
OBJECTIVE
To provide physicians and nurses with an overview of the impact of obesity on postoperative wound healing and how preplanning protocols can minimize skin and wound care problems in this patient population.


BACKGROUND
This continuing education activity is intended for physicians and nurses with an interest in reducing skin and wound care problems in their patients who are obese.


OBJECTIVE
After reading the article and taking the test, the participant will be able to: 1. Identify obesity-related changes in body systems and how these impede wound healing. 2. Identify complications of postoperative wound healing in obese patients and the assessments and intervention strategies that can reduce these complications. 3. Identify skin and wound care considerations for obese patients and the role of preplanning protocols in avoiding problems.
Wilson
Joyce A
JA
Department of General Surgery, Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX, USA.
Clark
Jan J
JJ
D001458:Bandages; D017577:Cutaneous Fistula / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D015390:Gastric Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009767:Obesity, Morbid / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors; D017592:Skin Care / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D014945:Wound Healing