Which of the following evaluations must be completed prior to bariatric surgery?

Prior to bariatric surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is essential to ensure patient safety and readiness for the surgical procedure. The psychological, medical, and anesthetic evaluations serve as critical components of this pre-operative assessment.

The psychological evaluation is vital because it assesses the patient's mental and emotional readiness for significant lifestyle changes associated with bariatric surgery. Understanding the patient's mindset can help identify any potential issues that may arise, including eating disorders or unrealistic expectations about the surgery’s outcomes.

The medical evaluation focuses on the overall health status of the patient, identifying any existing conditions that could complicate the surgery or the recovery process. This includes assessing obesity-related comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, which may impact surgical decisions and postoperative care.

The anesthetic evaluation is necessary to ensure the patient is suitable for anesthesia and to manage any risk factors that may contribute to complications during surgery. An understanding of the patient's medical history, including any previous reactions to anesthesia, is crucial for planning.

In summary, the combination of psychological, medical, and anesthetic evaluations creates a comprehensive pre-operative assessment that helps optimize surgical outcomes, reduce risks, and support patients in their journey towards healthier living.