Understanding the Experience of Osteoporosis Risk in Bariatric Surgical Patients

Abstract

Despite what is known about risk factors, preventive treatment, and increased prevalence of fragility fractures in post-bariatric surgical patients, little is known about how patient views of osteoporosis inform their commitment to bone health. The purpose of this research was to examine the lived experience of osteoporosis risk in people who have had bariatric surgery. The specific aims were to understand: 1. What it means to live with the risk of osteoporosis after bariatric surgery 2. The perceptions of osteoporosis risks postoperatively. This study used interpretive phenomenology to explore osteoporosis from the perspective of bariatric surgery patients.Purposive and snowball sampling was used to recruit individuals at risk for osteoporosis and a history of bariatric surgery. Eligibility criteria required participants to be female, over the age of 18 and understand and speak English. The study consisted of in-depth semi-structured interviews with 14 participants. Using open-ended questions, the interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Study aims were addressed using strategies outlined by Diekelmann, Allen, & Tanner (1989). Findings are described under the relational theme of Looking out for Self, and supported by three subthemes Understanding, Protecting, and Preventing. This research provided an ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank many of the individuals who helped me complete this dissertation study. My dissertation chair, Dr. Denice Sheehan, gave me continuous support, guidance, and encouragement. I'm grateful for her advice and clarity she gave throughout this dissertation. Assistance with edits and analysis were greatly appreciated. I'm thankful for her patience with my never-ending emails. I also want to thank my dissertation committee for all their time and effort they put into helping me complete this project.I could not have gotten through this journey without all my family and friends. I want to thank my dear friend, Heather who was willing to run with very early in the morning. I'm grateful for her friendship, willingness to listen, and loving heart. I am grateful for my CNSs colleagues and friends who provided never ending support and encouragement to keep me pushing forward.To my mom, Carol, who gave me support and helped me with juggling schedules while working on this dissertation. I want to thank my beautiful children, Isaac, Conner, and Nya for always being there to encourage me on. I'm appreciative for their patience while I sat for many hours at my computer. They are compassionate and strong individuals and I'm a better person because of them.Lastly, this endeavor would not have been possible without the never-ending support and encouragement that I received from my husband, Jeff. He gave me unending grace, love, and support through my relentless pursuit to not just finish my PhD but to excel. I was able to complete this work because of his steadfast belief in my capabilities. He is my best friend, love of my life, and has blessed me in countless ways. I feel so blessed to have s...