Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What is indicated for a patient with a BMI greater than 40?

1. Psychological counseling

2. Surgical intervention

3. Medication therapy

4. Increased physical activity

The correct answer is: Surgical intervention

When addressing a patient with a BMI greater than 40, which classifies as severe obesity, surgical intervention is often indicated. This classification is typically associated with significant health risks, including conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease. For many individuals with such a high BMI, lifestyle modifications alone, like increased physical activity or medication therapy, may not yield sufficient weight loss or health benefits. Surgical options, commonly referred to as bariatric surgery, include procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. These interventions can lead to significant and sustained weight loss and improvement in obesity-related comorbidities. They are usually considered when non-surgical methods have not been effective or when obesity poses a serious threat to the patient's health. Bariatric surgery is supported by various clinical guidelines for patients with a BMI greater than 40, especially when lifestyle changes and medications have been inadequate in managing the patient's weight.