Abstract
As we approach the fall of the year, many of us engage in reflection of the past year. As I approach the end of my tenure as president of NABN, I too am reflecting. Those of us who have been members of this organization over the years have been the recipients of many great learning opportunities. We have welcomed the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with experts in the experience of obesity, as well as those who seek to understand the causes of this disease that plagues so many around the world. We have heard from experts in treatment that span the continuum of care. We have been privileged to hear about cutting edge research and learn about the power of advocacy for people who cannot always advocate for themselves. We have gained extraordinary knowledge and experience. So what do we do with this now?
Stewardship is an ethical practice that suggests one be responsible in the planning and management of resources. What phenomenal resources we have gained through the years as a result of our experiences with NABN. Now, I charge you to identify what you can do to give back by making connections and sharing the knowledge we have.
Recently, I attended a 1-day workshop in Wilmington, NC, that was organized through collaboration between the North Carolina Chapter of NABN, home-based at Rex Hospital in Raleigh, NC, and New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington. First, I was astonished by what just a few people with a mission can accomplish. How exciting it is to have a state chapter and to see the mission of NABN in action. And to see the state chapter members facilitate and support continuing education at another location is amazing. My hat is off to Kathy Ross (NC Chapter President) and Kim Joyner (NABN Vice-President) who made this event happen! Throughout the day, we heard from people who continue to be challenged by obesity. Speakers informed participants as they considered the impact of postoperative regain and re-loss. We discussed the special needs when using anesthesia with the morbidly obese patient. We pondered transfer addiction and how to combat this issue. Finally we continued to consider how to grow our organization. This workshop was an excellent example of stewardship in action.
Many would think they do not have what it takes to make such a contribution. I beg you to reconsider. If you are reading this, you are one of more than 1,000 nurses who have joined NABN since our beginning. You have acquired a unique understanding of the special needs of the morbidly obese population. You have such great experiences and have so many opportunities to share through both everyday and professional connections. Perhaps you work in the surgical clinic. You are aware that weight ratings on furniture have to be considered in waiting areas. How does that translate to the public school system? What could you share with a school nurse about size and furniture? You could even add a bit about self-esteem and stigma. What could you share with your place of worship about space and size in order to make it more welcoming to persons of size? In the professional world, how could you assist a nurse in obstetrics that is caring for a morbidly obese patient in the delivery room? What do others need to know about space, size, mobility, and safety issues with a person of size?
Through professional and personal connections, all of us have an opportunity for stewardship. We have an understanding and compassion for the bariatric population that is and will be needed. We are thoughtful and broad in the consideration of the unique set of issues for this population, their families and friends, and the community around them. We can help!
As I wrote in the last journal, a recent update on obesity continued the sad news that obesity is not turning around. We must move forward with educational opportunities for members and nonmembers alike to further excellent patient care, as well as make it possible for people to live the fullest lives possible.
NABN has a well appreciated history of the compassion and caring for patients of size and their caregivers. Now I ask you to make connections at home, in your places of worship, in your grocery stores, and in your professional world. Tell what you know. Learn what we need to address. Be a steward of the resources that are available through NABN. Ask questions on the Forum and broaden your reach so that we meet our organizational mission. As NABN continues to seek and find new and exciting ways to reach out to you and others in our common battle to protect, support, and care for our clients of size, share the wealth of the knowledge you already possess.
I continue to challenge you as I have before: reach out to all those around you with your knowledge, expertise, guidance, and support as we care for more and more obese clients in all settings. Share your expertise; settle for nothing less than the “right way” to care for these individuals, families, and communities who need us. Speak up and speak out on topics about which you have gained expertise.
This is so much to ask as we begin the fall. School is starting back and soon the rush to holidays will begin. But take a minute to reflect. Be stewards of all that we have to offer.
As always, best wishes from the Board.