Excess Body Weight Screening in Children: Evidence-Based Quality Improvement Initiative

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Rising pediatric adiposity increases risks for chronic diseases, psychological issues, and adult obesity.
• Healthcare organizations face challenges in excess body weight (EBW) screening and follow-up due to provider bias and data management issues.
• Effective management of pediatric obesity is crucial for long-term health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate an evidence-based quality improvement (EBQI) initiative to enhance EBW screening and follow-up compliance in a pediatric primary care setting.
• To address organizational barriers hindering effective EBW management.
• To improve patient outcomes through systematic screening and follow-up protocols.

Main Methods:

• An evidence-based quality improvement (EBQI) initiative was implemented using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice model and Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology.
• Processes for EBW screening and follow-up were revised based on current literature.
• Educational sessions were provided by a university hospital endocrinology department on pediatric EBW management.

Main Results:

• The EBQI initiative led to a 56% average increase in body mass index (BMI) screenings.
• There was a 1,100% increase in scheduled BMI follow-up visits compared to baseline data.
• The initiative demonstrated significant improvements in screening and follow-up rates.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based quality improvement (EBQI) initiatives effectively enhance screening and follow-up compliance for pediatric excess body weight (EBW).
• Improved compliance positively impacts both organizational processes and patient health outcomes.
• Systematic approaches to EBW management are vital in pediatric primary care settings.