Date of Award

Spring 5-22-2021

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscript

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Kathy James, DNSc, ARNP, FAAN

Abstract

Background: Adolescent obesity is a serious health concern with increased worldwide prevalence. Excess weight gain can affect adolescent’s physical and emotional health. The adolescent with excess weight can involve acute and chronic long-term health complications that continue into adulthood.

Methods: Health care providers screened for overweight and obese adolescents during annual physicals and follow-up visits. Thirty adolescents at the 85th - 95th percentile and above on the growth chart received a pre and post clinical-screening questionnaire for eating behaviors and exercise. Individualized education with parent involvement and motivational interviewing (MI) was implemented with monthly follow-ups for 4 months.

Findings: Data were collected over 4 months. A modified clinical-screening questionnaire for eating behaviors revealed improvements in eating habits, exercise, and a 5% overall average weight loss as measured by BMI. As healthy behaviors increased, BMI decreased (r = -.75, p < .001). As the number of visits increased, healthy behaviors increased (r=.79, p<.001).

Discussion: The use of MI with guided behavioral modifications by practitioners with parent involvement and frequent follow-up can improve healthy behaviors and exercise in the adolescents.

Implications for Practice: This project supports that MI with guided behavioral changes by practitioner and parent involvement improves adolescents' diet and physical activity. MI and frequent follow-up were effective in promoting positive behavior change and healthier lifestyle changes.

Key Words: adolescents, clinical screening questionnaire, motivational interviewing, parent involvement, healthy behaviors

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