Behavioral intervention for the obese client

Nurse practitioners usually follow obese clients in outpatient settings. The behavioral approach to treating obesity has been demonstrated to help clients lose weight and maintain their weight loss. This article presents one such behavioral approach to treating obesity. Utilizing the nursing process as a framework, the components of a behavioral program are explored. Assessments of motivation, assets and limitations and target behaviors are described. Coverage of treatment planning includes contracting, problem lists and realistic commitments. Intervention techniques such as stimulus control, shaping, pairing and problem solving are presented. Evaluation using objective data gathered through monitoring is stressed. The characteristics of the practitioner which might positively or negatively affect a behavioral program for the obese client are discussed.