Pediatric Nurse Practitioners' Assessment and Management of Childhood Overweight/Obesity: Results from 1999 and 2005 Cohort Surveys
published online 27 June 2008.
Abstract
Introduction
Recently, public and professional emphasis has been placed on addressing the increasing prevalence of childhood overweight.
Method
This survey study was conducted with two cohorts of pediatric nurse practitioners (N = 413) to explore differences in self-reported practice skills over time.
Results
Significant improvements in assessment, screening, and laboratory evaluations were reported, although reduced adherence to recommended psychosocial assessments was noted.
Discussion
This study outlines self-reported barriers to effective childhood weight management. One support that participants requested was evidence-based guidelines. Motivational interviewing may be an additional strategy to enhance provider skills to assess and manage challenging patient behavior change (e.g., dietary and activity changes).
Correspondence: Leigh Small, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC, Arizona State University College of Nursing & Healthcare Innovation, 500 North Third St, Mail Code 3020, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
ABSTRACT