HJB highlights the role of hospital psychology with patients in the bariatric surgery sector

The Jean Bitar Hospital (HJB), in Belém, is considered a state reference in performing gastrointestinal operations and treating diseases such as obesity and diabetes, with an emphasis on bariatric surgeries and emphasizing the role of psychology in the hospital, especially with patients. The State Government’s Obesity Elimination Program, which is implemented by the unit’s multidisciplinary team.

In the month dedicated to the Psychologist’s Day (08/27), the HJB administration emphasizes the importance of the role of this professional in monitoring the conditions of patients undergoing bariatric surgeries, bearing in mind that in most cases the problem of obesity is associated with problems such as binge eating, anxiety, Among other factors that cause various sufferings.

According to HJB Clinical Psychologist Roberta Smith, in the bariatric process, a patient usually undergoes three psychological consultations, depending on their needs. The professional explains that in the first consultation, the patient’s anamnesis is conducted, along with the clinical interview, to find out the patient’s history, what prompted him to the program, the history of obesity and emotional problems to help the user adhere to the nutritional plan that aims at the daily organization that focuses on preparing for surgery. The process of change begins psychologically.

At the second consultation, Smith reported the importance of reaching out to a family member to find out how the process is going at home with the family. At the third consultation, if the patient is approved, the report is handed over to perform the surgery.

However, the psychologist cautions that when identifying early signs of a tendency to obesity, the ideal situation is to seek out a primary health unit (UBS) to seek psychological and emotional support and to investigate the process that led to the lack of control over food. .

“The person needs to know where the problem started, so that they can control that factor. In this case, psychological therapy will help a lot in this process, in parallel with physical activity to control anxiety and compulsion. And Roberta Smith confirmed that the result will be much better.

The psychiatrist adds that in addition to the individual follow-up with the patient, the family is also involved in the process to clarify what the surgery is, what its emotional effects are on the family’s routine, and what difficulties the family member notes.

“Supporting the family with their participation in this process is of fundamental importance, as it will also help them change their own habits to help this patient.”

User Monique Montero, 36, a student from Ananindewa city, says that humane treatment makes a difference in a patient’s life, when he goes to seek treatment due to a psychological problem and low self-esteem.

“The psychiatrist made me understand that we have to leave some things behind in order to get other things. Seeking help either from family or religion, trying to vent, not keeping bad feelings to yourself. It helped me get my self-esteem back and I will be able to achieve that.” She confirmed the user, who was in her last evaluation, to then proceed to the surgery.

“The multidisciplinary team (in the Obesity Program) is necessary for the surgery, but mainly to maintain the lifestyle changes that these patients will undergo. Before surgery, the psychiatrist assesses potential emotional problems that may interfere with follow-up until surgery. This professional does By preparing the patient’s mind to reduce psychological effects, also in the postoperative period, while creating expectations and transformations that occur in the short and long term, not only for the patient himself, but also for those around him.” Materials and sterilization (CME), Luciana Gomez.

The “Eliminate Obesity” program launched by the Parra government in September 2020, in June of that year, achieved a historic milestone by performing a thousand bariatric surgeries at Jean Bitar Hospital.

From January to June this year, HJB conducted 7,871 outpatient non-medical consultations, by the multidisciplinary professionals who are part of the programme. Of this total, 2,736 correspond to psychology services; 3,467 feeding services; and 1,668 social service assistance.

service: Jan Bitar Hospital belongs to the Public Health Network of the Government of Para, and is managed by the National Institute for Social and Human Development, in partnership with the State Ministry of Public Health (CESPA). The unit provides medium and high-complex care in the outpatient and hospital area for transgender users, and in the medical and surgical clinics for metabolic and gastroenterology. HJB is located at Rua Cônego Jerônimo Pimentel, No. 543, in the Omarizal district, in Belém. More information: (91) 3239-3800.

text: Marcelo Zeno/Ascom HJB