Prepare for Increased Attention on Bariatric Care
Rising obesity rates have already affected the clinical landscape across acute and post-acute settings—and will likely continue. A recent analysis published in JAMA reports that U.S. adult obesity rates increased from 19.3% in 1990 to 42.5%
in 2022, with projections approaching 47% by 2035.¹
According to CMS, hospitals will be expected to report stage 2 pressure injuries by the time fiscal year 2027 payments are determined.2 That’s why it’s important to establish facility protocols and education that support accurate skin assessment and PI prevention strategies for bariatric patients.
Compounding risk factors—increased body mass, limited mobility, prolonged lengths of stay and challenging microclimates—often put bariatric patients at higher risk for skin breakdown. Together, these factors can accelerate tissue breakdown and complicate recovery and discharge planning.3
Equipment and systems alignment is key
Appropriate support surfaces and consistent facility protocols can aid in effective skin breakdown prevention.4 Surfaces engineered for higher loads, such as bariatric pressure redistribution mattresses and overlays, should provide adequate immersion while maintaining structural integrity under sustained weight. Alternating pressure and low air loss technologies can also help to manage both mechanical load and microclimate.
Safe patient handling is also important. Effective protocols support both patient safety and caregiver injury prevention. Consider bariatric transfer aids including reinforced turn sheets, air-assisted lateral transfer devices and ceiling lifts. It’s important to align repositioning protocols with device capabilities; turning without proper support may fail to reduce tissue stress and increase caregiver risk.
Targeted prevention measures also include prophylactic sacral and heel dressings, structured moisture management and optimal nutrition. Along with sourcing the right tools, facilities can implement early bariatric-specific risk assessment and treatment plans; define interdisciplinary roles; document equipment performance; and conduct routine audits to ensure reliability.
As obesity continues to rise, being prepared will be essential help to reducing avoidable harm and meeting CMS expectations.