Newcastle University, School of Dental Sciences, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, UK.
Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, UK.
Br Dent J. 2019 Jul;227(1):38-42. doi: 10.1038/s41415-019-0459-4.
Introduction Levels of obesity in the UK are increasing. The suitability and safety of dental care delivery can be affected by obesity. When patients' weight exceeds that of a normal dental chair, referral to specialist settings can be appropriate, yet no research has explored the process of care for this group.Aims This study aimed to explore the experiences of patients and dentists regarding referral to bariatric dental care facilities.Method Semi-structured interviews were completed with patients referred to a bariatric dental service and referring dentists. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically.Results Twelve dentists and eight patients participated. Both groups were aware that obesity influenced care and had concerns about the safety of treatment. Dentists were cautious about discussing weight though patients were willing to discuss this. The challenges in identifying weight and organising appropriate care were key issues affecting both patients and dentists.Conclusion Dentists should engage in discussions regarding obesity without hesitation, where appropriate. Redesigned patient-focused care pathways to direct patients to accessible services would help reduce stigma and improve safety for patients with obesity.
引言
英国的肥胖症发病率不断上升。肥胖可能会影响口腔护理服务的适用性和安全性。当患者的体重超出普通牙科椅的承载能力时，可能需要转介至专业机构，但目前尚无研究探讨为这类患者提供护理的过程。
目的
本研究旨在探讨患者和牙医在转介至肥胖牙科护理机构方面的经历。
方法
对转诊至肥胖牙科服务机构的患者和转诊牙医进行半结构化访谈。对访谈记录进行主题分析。
结果
共有 12 名牙医和 8 名患者参与研究。两组人员均意识到肥胖会影响治疗，并对治疗安全性表示担忧。尽管患者愿意讨论，但牙医在讨论体重方面仍持谨慎态度。确定体重和组织适当护理方面的挑战是影响患者和牙医的关键问题。
结论
牙医应毫不犹豫地酌情开展有关肥胖的讨论。设计以患者为中心的护理途径，将患者引导至可及性服务，有助于减少肥胖患者的耻辱感并提高安全性。
