Total Disillusionment

I am 6 1/2 weeks post op, I finally had my first follow up last week.  When I stepped on the scale and the nurse documented I was down 50 lbs I just about jumped up and down with joy and she had no comment.  She then took my blood pressure and it was NORMAL, once again I was so ready to jump for joy, once again she had no comment. She just sat there and did her paperwork, I was expecting a little more enthusiasm on her part on well I have done to this point, but nothing.  I was having an issue with severe pain in my stomach everytime I ate or drank and she flatly stated, if the pain continues maybe you should see your family doctor and request a CT scan.  I walked out of that appointment totally alone, that is the hospital I had my surgery and all my pre-op appts and this nurse is part of the bariactric team.  Two days later I went to the after hours clinic in my area and I was pleasantly surprised at the care I received from the nurse and the doctor, the nurse congratulated me on my choice to have the surgery and the amount I lost, as she left the examining room she once again commended me on my good work.  The doctor was a dream (very handsome too) anyways, he figured out I don't need a CT scan as the problem was too much acid and he gave me antiacid medication that has helped so much.  He too was very supportive with my progress, two strangers gave me what I was expecting from the bariactric team. Thanks for listening.

sorry you had a bad experience.  Way different from what I had here where we were seen by someone each week, though each diet phase for at least 6 months. Hope you have a support group there you can use.  If not, stay tuned here for support.  Everyone needs support at some time.

 I would  probably have to say something to that director of the bariatric team. That is not good - she could have shown some happiness for you- or even a pat on the back. She is in the wrong practice. 
Great job on your weight loss. That is amazing how fast it is falling off. I hope I have as much success as you. Keep up the great work. It is paying off for you.

I have never really been to happy with the bariatric team that I work with but loved my surgeon.  If it wasn't for him, I would have went to a different program.  The surgeon (general surgeon) has done surgery on several family members for various reasons.  I feel that if I was in medical distress he would be able to address it and do other surgeries if needed.  As for the rest of the team .............. honestly I could do without.  I have learned more from people on this site and my primary care physician.  I have actually used the B word to described a nurse on the team.

Sorry, that you encounter such bad services.........
Congrats on your weight loss! 
Be your own prep rally! 

Wow. I'm sorry that happened to you. I would be writing a letter to the head of the bariatric clinic you go to detailing your experience. That seems so very wrong. Congrats on your loss!

Eh.. the gal who takes my weight has never said anything about my weight.  I don't take it to heart.  I don't need her to be my cheerleader.  Maybe she isn't aware of what your weight loss progress is or your blood pressure?

I am so sorry to hear the experiences that you have encountered with the "team".  I could not be happier with mine.  Sooooo encouraging, sooooo supportive.  Is there anyway you could follow up with another?  After all, you will be needing encouragement throughout this journey for the rest of your life.  I would not be happy and would have to look elsewhere.  Of course OH is also the way to go, but when you go in for your checkups you NEED support!!

That is so crappy , maybe your "team" needs a little reminder that this is a BIG DEAL to their patients. So you didn't see your doc??? I would not have  been happy with that at all.
My doc put me on an acid reducer right away and when I saw him 1 week out he made sure I was taking it because it was so important , at least for 3 months.
I am glad you got your pat on the back from the clinic, this is a very big deal and that is a stagering weight loss!!!

The people that work in the bariatric programs see people like us ALL DAY LONG.  Most of them are probably just numb to it.

You don't need a stranger to validate your success.  YOU are the only one that needs to be proud of what you've accomplished...and you should be!  Also, you have the folks here on OH that love to celebrate with you.

Please remember you are to be your biggest advocate and cheerleader.  When you hit goal, and no one remembers the fat you.........you will be the main person to keep you focused so you remain successful for life.

Set long term goals that aren't related to weight loss so you always have new things to strive for.

And yes, I am very proud of your success, and wish you long term continued success in everything you set your heart on!

Kim

Chalk up the nurse's lack of enthusiasm to job fatigue, actual fatigue, a bad day, illness, or a philosophy of not giving her opinion on anyone's weight--which is generally a good thing. Honestly, she is not required to be bubbly, outgoing, personally involved, or a cheerleader for patients. It would be really nice, but if she's courteous and knows what she's doing, that's enough. 

What she did wrong was to suggest a diagnosis and plan of care for you. Unless she is your nurse practicioner, she's way out of line; if she is your primary, she didn't examine you or even question you further. Her only counsel should be to see your physician. In my opinion, this is what is dangerous and reportable.