The Effect of Nurse Coaching on Eating Behavior, Weight Loss, and Quality of Life After Bariatric Surgery: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Background Bariatric surgery leads to significant weight loss, but behavioral adherence remains crucial for long-term outcomes. Nurse coaching based on motivational interviewing may improve post-surgical lifestyle adaptation. Objectives To examine the effect of motivational interviewing-based nurse coaching on eating behavior, weight loss, and quality of life in patients after bariatric surgery. Methods This quasi-experimental study involved 32 patients who received biweekly nurse coaching sessions over six months. Data collection tools included the Obesity Surgery Quality of Life (OSQOL) scale and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ). Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared using paired t-tests, Pearson correlation, and linear regression analysis via SPSS v28. Results The average participant age was 44.87 ± 7.21 years; 87.5% were female. Statistically significant weight loss was observed post-intervention (p < 0.05). The psychosocial subdomain of OSQOL and all three TFEQ subscales (Cognitive Restraint, Emotional Eating, Uncontrolled Eating) showed significant improvements (p < 0.05). No correlation was observed between total weight loss and OSQOL/TFEQ total scores. Conclusions Nurse coaching significantly enhanced psychosocial well-being and eating behavior regulation in post-bariatric patients, supporting its integration into routine postoperative care.