Incorporating Obesity Education into Adult Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

Abstract

Epidemic levels of obesity in the United States have created a ripple effect throughout healthcare. Healthcare organizations have taken great strides to address obesity-related issues such as sensitivity training and adjustments to the environment of care. Studies suggest, however, that nurses, physicians, and their respective students need additional obesity education and training in the care of the obese patient. To date, there are no national guidelines regarding the specific education of obesity to be included in advanced practice nursing curricula. Obesity is incorporated within other disease state content guidelines rather than as a unique medical condition. Additionally, obesity content is seldom incorporated into core coursework, making it more challenging for students to consider in subsequent diagnostic and management courses. A review of the current obesity literature and of the primary and acute care adult/gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP) competencies provides rationale for incorporation ...