<p>The number of obese patients is rising worldwide, with estimates of nearly 2 billion adults being overweight (body mass index (BMI) >25) and 600 million being obese (BMI>30). These numbers mean that, on a daily basis, most healthcare providers are working with bariatric patients as bariatrics deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Obese patients experience increased lengths of stay in hospital, higher morbidity, and increased needs for care once they leave an acute care facility. </p>