Raising the issue

Establishing Patient Interest

Details

Published on Tuesday, 13 June 2006

Listening carefully to the response given by patients when invited to consider a weight management programme will provide insight into their ability and commitment to lose weight. Often we say that patients need to be ¬ëmotivated¬í to lose weight but this is not something that is easy to assess. As discussed by Kushner & Pendarvis (1999), motivation is an internal state that the patient expresses verbally and behaviourally, but declarations of intent may not accurately reflect the true capabilities or commitment of the patient to make changes.¹

 

For example, the statement, “I would do anything to lose weight” is more likely to reflect idealistic or wishful thinking about weight loss. Discussions need to focus on the necessary behavioural changes to diet and levels of activity. Equally, statements such as, “I’ve tried everything doctor but diets just don’t work for me” may reflect a lack of self-belief that needs to be carefully explored with the patient.

Paying careful attention to the patient’s story, discussing what made previous attempts successful or not, asking about their expectations, certainties and doubts about losing weight will help to provide deeper insight into their commitment and ability to lose weight.