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VIST College of Nursing

Abbottabad, Pakistan

Research Proposal

Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity


By

Ahmad Khalid
(Roll No. 03)
BS Nursing

Supervisor
Sir Qazi Hassan

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2020-2024)

The candidate confirms that the work submitted is their own and appropriate
credit has been given where reference has been made to the work of others
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Keywords
3. Literature Revies
3.1. Epidemiology of Childhood Obesity
3.2. Contributing Factor
3.3. The Role of School Nurse
3.4. Gaps in Research
4. References

Department of Computer Science, CUI, Abbottabad ii


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

1. Introduction
In the landscape of contemporary healthcare, childhood obesity stands as an alarming
and escalating challenge. The global surge in childhood obesity rates has sparked
concern among healthcare practitioners, educators, and policymakers, calling for
comprehensive efforts to curb this crisis. Among the healthcare professionals involved in
this endeavor, nurses, particularly pediatric and school nurses, hold a pivotal role. Their
knowledge and practices have a significant impact on addressing and preventing
childhood obesity, making their perspectives and expertise invaluable in this ongoing
battle.
This research report explores the perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge of nurses as they
relate to childhood obesity. It brings together insights from multiple studies focused on
pediatric and school nurses, shedding light on the strengths and weaknesses within the
nursing community. By understanding the current state of nurse knowledge regarding
childhood obesity, we aim to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for future
interventions and educational initiatives.
Childhood obesity is a multifaceted issue with immediate and long-term health
implications for affected children. It often leads to a host of physical and psychological
comorbidities, demanding comprehensive healthcare strategies. Recent statistics reveal
that nearly one in three American children is either at risk for or already overweight.
Even more concerning is the fact that childhood obesity tends to persist into adulthood,
resulting in an array of adult health issues. This emphasizes the urgency of addressing
this issue from a young age and highlights the need for nurses, who play a central role in
pediatric care, to be well-informed about childhood obesity.
Nurses, serving as the frontline healthcare providers for many children, have a unique
vantage point from which to engage with the issue of childhood obesity. They are often
the first to encounter children at risk of obesity or those already affected. Their
interactions with young patients and their families provide valuable opportunities for
education, prevention, and intervention.
In this research report, we aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of nurse
knowledge regarding childhood obesity. By examining the insights and experiences of
pediatric and school nurses, we can identify areas where they excel and areas where
further support and education may be needed. This report is a stepping stone in our
commitment to equipping nurses with the tools and knowledge necessary to provide
effective care and guidance in the battle against childhood obesity.

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 1


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

2. Keywords
1. Obesity
Definition: Refers to the excessive accumulation of body fat in children, a major
public health concern due to its short-term and long-term health consequences.
2. Nurse Knowledge
Definition: Indicates the awareness and understanding that nurses possess about
childhood obesity, crucial for effective prevention and management.
3. School Nurses
Definition: Nurses who work in educational institutions, often serving as key
healthcare providers for children, especially in identifying and addressing health
issues like childhood obesity.
4. Pediatric Nurses
Definition: Specialized nurses who primarily focus on providing healthcare to
infants, children, and adolescents, including addressing health concerns such as
childhood obesity.
5. Healthcare Professionals
Definition: Individuals with expertise in medical and healthcare-related fields,
including nurses, who play vital roles in managing childhood obesity.
6. Prevention and Intervention
Definition: Refers to strategies and actions taken to stop the occurrence and
progression of childhood obesity, addressing it early and effectively.
7. Multifaceted Approach
Definition: Involves considering various aspects and factors, including
psychological, environmental, and behavioral, when dealing with childhood obesity.
8. Health-Related Issues
Definition: Denotes physical, psychological, and emotional problems linked to
childhood obesity, necessitating comprehensive healthcare solutions.
9. Empower Nurses
Definition: The goal of enabling nurses with the knowledge and tools to take an
active and effective role in addressing childhood obesity.
10. Decision-Making
Definition: The process of making informed choices and taking actions to address
the issue of childhood obesity based on research and insights.

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 2


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

11. Interventions
Definition: Strategies and actions aimed at reducing the prevalence and impact of
childhood obesity, often undertaken by healthcare professionals and nurses.
12. Healthier Future
Definition: The desired outcome of addressing childhood obesity, which is to
improve the health and well-being of future generations by tackling this issue
effectively.

3. Literature Revies
Childhood obesity is a pressing global health concern. The dramatic increase in
childhood obesity over the past few decades has captured the attention of healthcare
professionals, educators, and policymakers worldwide. According to Caprio and Genel
(2005), it is currently one of the most preventable nutritional disorders in the 21st
century. The prevalence of childhood obesity has surged at an alarming rate, affecting
children's health and well-being. While it is clear that addressing childhood obesity is of
paramount importance, one area that has received limited attention is the role of nurses,
particularly school and pediatric nurses, in its prevention and management.

3.1. Epidemiology of Childhood Obesity


The epidemiological data regarding childhood obesity paints a concerning picture.
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) reported a
substantial increase in the number of overweight children in the United States over
the past 40 years. In 1999-2000, the NHANES data indicated that 15% of the
nation's children were overweight, which is often a precursor to childhood obesity
(NHANES, 2004). Notably, the United States is not the sole bearer of this burden.
Similar trends have emerged globally, affecting millions of children worldwide.

3.2. Contributing Factor


Childhood obesity is a multifaceted issue influenced by genetic, behavioural, and
environmental factors (CDC, 2007). Genetic factors, such as familial history of
obesity and early menarche, can contribute to a child's risk of obesity.
Furthermore, behaviors like consuming high-calorie, low-nutrient fast foods have
become more accessible, leading to an increase in caloric intake (Gance-
Cleveland & Bushmiaer, 2005). The environmental context is crucial too.
Environments within homes, schools, and communities can shape children's eating
habits and physical activity levels. The availability of fast food, sedentary
behaviors due to increased screen time, and limited access to safe outdoor spaces
for physical activity are among the many environmental factors affecting
children's health (Koplan et al., 2005).

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 3


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

3.3. The Role of School Nurse


School nurses play an essential role in the school setting as healthcare providers.
They have a unique opportunity to identify children at risk of obesity through
screening, education, and early intervention (Hagerty et al., 2004). These
professionals recognize the importance of proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle
choices, including diet and exercise, in maintaining students' health. However, it's
essential to highlight that, although school nurses have the knowledge regarding
managing chronic health issues in school-age children (Role of the School Nurse,
2005), there's a paucity of research exploring the extent to which school nurses are
effectively engaged in the prevention and management of childhood obesity.

3.4. Gaps in Research


This literature review underscores the critical need for research that delves into the
specific knowledge, practices, and roles of school nurses and paediatric nurses in
addressing childhood obesity. While the epidemiological and etiological aspects
of childhood obesity have been well-studied, there's a significant gap when it
comes to understanding the barriers, facilitators, and practical engagement of
these nursing professionals. A more comprehensive comprehension of the barriers
and facilitators to health promotion practices among nurses is essential (Caprio &
Genel, 2005).

Childhood obesity is a pervasive and growing problem, and nurses, especially school and
paediatric nurses, can play a crucial role in addressing this issue. However, understanding
their knowledge and practices, as well as the barriers they face, is a critical area for further
research. Such insights are essential for designing effective interventions that can help
combat this challenging health issue.

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 4


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

4. References

DiNapoli, C. (September 2011). Pediatric Nurses' Perceptions, Attitudes, and Knowledge of


Childhood Obesity at an Academic Medical Center. Bariatric Surgical Practice and
Patient Care, 125-121.
Nauta, C. (2009). School nurses and childhood obesity: an investigation of knowledge and
practice among school nurses as they relate to childhood obesity. Issues in
Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing, 16-30.
Tsai, T.-I. (2019). Exploring the knowledge of student nurses about. Clinical Nursing Studies,
7. 63.

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 5


Nurse Knowledge of Childhood Obesity

Department of Nursing, VIST College of Nursing, Abbottabad 6

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