Suitability of a Post-Operative Bariatric Nutrition Education Tool

Abstract

ObjectivesWhile bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for individuals living with severe obesity, adhering to dietary requirements, especially protein requirements, can be a challenge. This study aims to examine the suitability of a nutrition-based education tool called “Protein Cards” that is focused on recipes high in protein to support individuals who have completed the surgery. MethodsAn online survey (23 questions) was developed using an adapted version of the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) instrument along with two additional questions about the participants’ overall impression of the Protein Cards. Sample recipe cards were shown on each page of the survey. Participants were asked to rate the Protein Cards (“Not Suitable”, “Adequate”, or “Superior”) on: Content, Literacy Demand, Graphic Illustrations, Layout & Typography, Learning Stimulation & Motivation, and Cultural Appropriateness. Additionally, participants rated Overall Impression on a scale of 0 to 100. The survey was distributed over email to Canadian bariatric patients (adolescents and adults), dietitians, healthcare workers, and caregivers. ResultsTwenty participants registered to participate in the survey (Sept 2020-Jan 2021) but only fifteen participants completed the entire survey. Preliminary results revealed “Superior” scores for Content (83%), Learning & Stimulation (81%), Layout & Typography (89%), Literacy Demand (76%), and Cultural Appropriateness (78%). Overall, the recipe cards obtained an average score of 81%, which is considered as a “Superior” evaluation. Participants expressed that they were more likely to use the education tool during the “purée" (82%) and “soft diet” (78%) phases of the post-surgical diet and would prefer if the tool took on the form of a mobile application (85%). ConclusionsThe Protein Cards are considered a superior education tool that could be helpful when teaching and learning about foods high in protein for the post-operative stages of bariatric surgery. Future work will involve testing the tool in practice with both adolescent and adult patients as a means to increase adherence to post-operative nutrition requirements. Funding SourcesUniversity of British Columbia, Faculty of Land and Food Systems.