Provides specialized medical nutrition therapy for bariatric surgery patients and evaluates effectiveness of treatments throughout their weight loss journey.
Responsibilities:
- Conducts comprehensive pre- and post-operative nutritional assessments for bariatric patients, evaluating readiness for surgery and identifying nutritional deficiencies or complications.
- Develops and implements individualized bariatric nutrition plans tailored to specific surgical procedures (gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, lap-band, etc.), emphasizing adequate protein intake, micronutrient supplementation, and hydration protocols.
- Provides specialized counseling to bariatric patients on dietary modifications, portion control, eating behaviors, and lifestyle changes necessary for successful long-term weight management and metabolic health.
- Monitors tolerance and effectiveness of bariatric nutritional regimens, identifies complications such as dumping syndrome, malabsorption, or nutrient deficiencies, and recommends therapy adjustments as necessary.
- Collaborates with bariatric surgeons, nursing staff, behavioral health specialists, and ancillary services to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care for bariatric patients.
- Educates bariatric patients and their families on post-operative nutrition requirements, supplement protocols, food reintroduction phases, and strategies for preventing weight regain.
- Provides community nutrition education specific to bariatric health through public speaking, support groups, news releases, and other publications.
- Researches and takes initiatives to resolve bariatric nutrition care-related complaints and problems, staying current with evidence-based bariatric nutrition practices.
- Assists in monitoring meal planning and food service compliance for bariatric patients, maintaining sanitation standards in food preparation areas through planned and unannounced inspections.
CERTIFICATION/LICENCES REQUIRED:
- Dietitian/Nutritionist credentialed from the Commission on Dietetic Registration obtained prior to hire date or job transfer date required.
- Advanced Life Support preferred. American Heart Association or American Red Cross accepted - BLS Provider preferred. American Heart Association or American Red Cross accepted.
- Educator specializing in Diabetes Management preferred.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
- High School diploma equivalency with 2 years of cumulative experience OR Associate's degree/Technical degree OR 4 years of applicable cumulative job specific experience required.
- Bariatric experience preferred
