The first book to provide APNs with the tools to effectively treat obese patients

This book is the first resource to give the APN the practical tools with which to communicate, assess, and treat obese patients. Designed to help APNs to easily broach an uncomfortable topic, the book walks practitioners through the exam, providing tips on effective communication, understanding lifestyle constraints, and working with the patient to improve their condition without shame. Emphasizing multidisciplinary approaches and evidence-based treatment, the book addresses prevention, provider recognition, and treatment of adult and pediatric obesity with the goal of improving overall quality of life.

The resource offers practical information on diet and exercise that foster healthy weight loss along with psychological, pharmacological, and surgical recommendations. Effective tips on all facets of working with obese patients, bolstered with real-life examples that provide the patient’s perspective, help APNs understand and provide a better quality of care to these vulnerable patients. Additionally, the book includes substantial information on comorbidities, which add to the complexity of obesity treatment. Chapters address current trends and causes of obesity; communication “dos” and “don'ts;" the technical aspects of obesity including genetics and pathophysiology, obesity as an addiction; eating disorders; assessment from the APN point of view; disease management; pharmacological, surgical, and medical management; and costs and insurance coverage. Several tools that can be used to enhance clinical practice are featured in the Appendix.

Key Features:

Written specifically for the Advanced Practice Nurse

Covers all facets of communication with, assessment of, and treatment of obese patients

Includes case studies and treatment plans from a nursing perspective

Highlights a multidisciplinary approach

Includes effective tips, photographs, and real-life examples that illustrate the patient’s perspective

Lisa L.M. Maher