Practice nurses' and health visitors' knowledge of obesity assessment and management
Authors: Green, S.M., McCoubrie, M. and Cullingham, C.
Journal: Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics
Volume: 13
Issue: 6
Pages: 413-423
ISSN: 0952-3871
DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-277X.2000.00256.x
Abstract:Background. Obesity is increasing in prevalence in the UK. Practice Nurses (PNs) and to a lesser extent Health Visitors (HVs) may advise patients/clients on weight management. The aim of this survey was to examine HVs and PNs knowledge concerning the assessment and management of obesity by use of a questionnaire. Method. A postal questionnaire was sent to 35 HVs and 49 PNs based at 24 practices within one regional health authority. The practices had participated in a previous survey. A 54% (17 HVs and 28 PNs) response rate was achieved. Results. Responses indicated that little education concerning obesity had been received since professional registration, and a need for this was identified. Most respondents used a computer or chart to calculate BMI of patients/client. Three HVs and 21 PNs correctly identified that a BMI of > 29 or 30 indicated obesity, and six HVs and 21 PNs identified that centrally distributed obesity is associated with a greater risk of metabolic disease. Most respondents indicated they would advise a person with obesity to follow a low-fat diet; however, a low-energy diet was indicated by some. The majority were able to identify which of a number of foods were high in fat, although some low-fat foods were frequently misclassified. Most respondents mentioned the importance of lifestyle change and physical activity. Recommended weight loss generally followed current guidelines. Conclusion. Recommendations for practice are outlined. These include closer liason with dietetic services, more emphasis on the assessment of eating habits and lifestyle, greater use of a client-centred approach and use of appropriate guidelines on physical activity. Further research should be carried out to explore the results of this small-scale study.
Source: Scopus
Practice Nurses' and Health Visitors' knowledge of obesity assessment and management
Authors: Green, S.M., McCoubrie, M. and Cullingham, C.
Journal: JOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION AND DIETETICS
Volume: 13
Issue: 6
Pages: 413-423
ISSN: 0952-3871
DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-277X.2000.00256.x
Source: Web of Science (Lite)