[The Role of the Community Health Nurse to Manage and Control Obesity among Australian Population]

By

Acknowledgement

I would take this opportunity to thank my research supervisor, family and friends for their support and guidance without which this research would not have been possible.

DECLARATION

I [type your full first names and surname here], declare that the contents of this dissertation represent my own unaided work, and that the dissertation has not previously been submitted for academic examination towards any qualification. Furthermore, it represents my own opinions and not necessarily those of the University.

Signed __________________ Date _________________

Table of Content

Executive Summary5

Chapter 1: Introdcution6

Background6

Aim8

Chapter 2: Literature Review9

The role of primary health care in obesity prevention9

Increasing prevalence of obesity in the Australian population10

Practice nurses13

Community health nurses14

Nurse practitioners15

Chapter 3: Methodology17

Research Questions17

Aims17

Research Design17

Sample18

Demographics18

Human Subjects18

Recruitment19

Data Collection20

Data Analysis20

Instrument21

Summary22

Chapter 4: Results & Discussion24

School Nurse Work Load and Setting27

School28

School- Level Obesity Prevention33

Support from Others36

Research Questions38

Research Question I38

Research Question 238

Research Question 339

Research Question 439

Summary39

Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendation42

Overview42

Important Findings42

Summary44

References46

Appendix 149

Appndix 250

Executive Summary

Obesity is a global problem, independent of age. The numbers of obese individuals are now reaching epidemic proportions around the world. This is contributing to the risk of inherent comorbidity. The pathophysiology of obesity, although widely debated, is still unclear with suggestions that multiple genetic mutations may have a key role in the development, but as yet no one genetic mutation is felt to be entirely responsible. Biochemical manifestations such as diabetes may play a role. The first goal of management of the obese patient will involve dietary and behavioural modification and a programme of physical exercise. In primary care settings, nurses are suitably placed to assess and manage obese patients. The nursing profession needs to rise to the challenge and prepare nurses for a specialist role in obesity management. This dissertation examines the current scientific knowledge on the relationship between diet and obesity, and considers the implications for nursing practice. It focuses on the main nutritional elements that have been identified as significant in the prevention and management of obesity. Research Findings reveal the important role of specific dietary habits and patterns and their influence on obesity; particularly on childhood obesity. This Dissertation discusses the nursing implications in relation to the prevention and management of obesity.

Chapter 1: Introdcution

Obesity is a condition of excess body fat associated with increased risks of diabetes, cardiovascular and other common diseases. Its prevalence has increased over a short period in many parts of the world, with obesity prevention and management becoming leading public health issues. Among a range of responses, attention has focused on how to develop health services for the increasing numbers of patients who are already obese and need support in managing their weight (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2008). Evidence-based guidelines in several countries recommend various interventions, including those that help patients with changes to lifestyle. It is in this area that nurses are seen to have a key role, particularly those nurses working in primary care. Internationally, the contexts and roles for nurses undertaking lifestyle interventions vary considerably. However, international health policy encourages the ...