Effects of a comprehensive bariatric program implementation on 30-day readmission and 30-day ER/infusion clinic visit rates due to dehydration

Background: Program accreditation requires adherence to MBSAQIP standards to assist patient in making needed changes to his/her diet and lifestyle. However, literature provides conflicting information regarding the value of a comprehensive bariatric program accreditation and its effects on 30-day readmission and 30-day ER/infusion clinic visit due to dehydration development. Objectives: To examine the effects of implementing a comprehensive bariatric surgical program on 30-day readmission rates, and 30-day emergency room (ER) and infusion clinic visit rates due to dehydration for bariatric surgical patients. Methods: Our study was a retrospective separate sample pre-post intervention chart review. The data were collected before and after implementing a comprehensive bariatric program using a convenience sample of 180 adult patients (age ≥18) that had bariatric surgery at an acute care hospital. We conducted Chi-square analyses with significance levels set at 0.05. Results: Among the 180 patients, majority had laparoscopic gastric bypass (n=112, 62.2%). Among the 180 patients, 55 (31%) were in the pre-intervention and 125 (69%) were in the postintervention group. A total of 7 (3.9%) had 30-day readmission. Significantly more patients (n=5, 9.1%) in the pre-intervention group had 30-day readmission compared to those in the postintervention group (n=2, 1.6%; X=5.73, p=0.03). Among the 180 patients, 8 (4.4%) had 30-day ER/infusion clinic visit due to dehydration. No difference was found in 30-day ER/infusion clinic visit between the pre-intervention (n=5, 9.1%) and the post-intervention groups (n=3, 2.4%; X=4.03, p=0.06). Conclusion: Implementation of comprehensive bariatric program was effective in lowering 30day readmission rates. EFFECTS OF A COMPREHENSIVE BARIATRIC PROGRAM 3