Job Description

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.

Qualifications

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