Nursing students' perceptions of obesity and behaviour change: implications for undergraduate nurse education

Rates of obesity are rising and previous research suggests this is not effectively dealt with in healthcare settings. Nurses are increasingly involved in lifestyle management of patients, and understanding the barriers to discussing weight with patients is likely to increase successful weight management. Obesity management is a role that nursing students will need to be equipped with and more likely to be targeted for future training developments in tackling the increasing rates of obesity.

To explore the perceptions of obesity, potential barriers to successful patient weight management and training needs of nursing students.

Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 nursing students. Audiotaped interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using an inductive thematic approach informed by principles of grounded theory.

Participants reported the challenge of managing obesity in healthcare practice, such as the impact of negative attitudes in healthcare practice on patient care. Although perceived as core to their training, nursing students lacked the confidence and techniques to discuss weight management with patients. Participants also perceived the nursing curriculum as lacking a focus on obesity, and reported a need for advanced communication skills training.

Although seen as important, nurses lack the skills to facilitate weight management, leading to nurses failing to broach the issue.

Nurse educators should consider the perceptions of current students when making curriculum developments in this area.