Question

Your next patient would be classified as obese. As you seat him in the dental chair, you do not feel confident about taking his vital signs. What are some of the obstacles that should be considered when taking vital signs on an obese patient?

Answer 1

Since the patient is obese there are certain aspects that one needs to be mindful of in order to avoid skipping them during assessment. The pulse and respiration need to be assured since it may be increased for an obese patient. They are often seen to be facing difficulties in breathing, especially after even mere amount of physical activity. The blood pressure needs to kept in check as well. Moreover, the BMI must be calculated in order to see how overweight the client is. The same needs to be conveyed in all seriousness so that necessary modifications can be made to keep the health in check. This could include change in diet as well as lifestyle alterations. Also, specially designed bariatric ambulances are now being manufactured for such patients. They include design features such as a heavy duty chassis, ramps for access and a wider interior. If the ambulance is not able to accommodate the weight of the patient and crew, an alternate mode of transportation to the hospital should be considered. Another concern of all providers is the moving of patients. Many obese patients face mobility problems. Walking, use of stairs and climbing into an ambulance may not be options. Adequate personnel must be on scene to limit the risk of injury to patients and staff. All possible measures should be undertaken in order to ensure that the patient as well as staff members are safe.