The challenges of obesity and skin integrity

As the occurrence of obesity reaches epidemic proportions, the rising numbers of obese patients affect health care delivery in multiple ways. Many hospitals report inadequate equipment, policies, and personnel to accommodate the needs of larger patients. Skin care becomes a clinical challenge in many cases and is at particular risk for injury during a hospitalization, especially in the presence of obesity This article defines obesity and presents the demographics, clinical challenges, skin and wound issues, and the legal implications present in the treatment of obese patients.As the occurrence of obesity reaches epidemic proportions, the rising numbers of obese patients affect health care delivery in multiple ways. Many hospitals report inadequate equipment, policies, and personnel to accommodate the needs of larger patients. Skin care becomes a clinical challenge in many cases and is at particular risk for injury during a hospitalization, especially in the presence of obesity This article defines obesity and presents the demographics, clinical challenges, skin and wound issues, and the legal implications present in the treatment of obese patients.