The role of the nurse in the Obesity Clinic: a practical guideline

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health problem, and its trend is increasing worldwide. Interventions to effectively treat obesity and its related diseases are advocated. Given the complexity of obesity management, nurses need specific core skills to work in the Obesity Clinic and can act as key players in the multidisciplinary team of the Obesity Clinic. To provide practical guidelines for nurses working in Obesity Clinic for effective management of obesity and its related diseases, the current evidence on the role nurses in the obesity clinic was reviewed. Nurses can play a pivotal role in the management of patients with obesity and associated diseases that may require a stricter follow-up than usual care.Given the complexity of the treatment of obesity and its comorbidity, nurses should receive a specific training for: 1) methods and tools to effectively treat obesity and obesity-related disease, 2) patients and families education on nutrition, lifestyle changes, and prevention/management of obesity-related diseases; 3) motivation of patients towards adherence to treatment to achieve their specific goals. This manuscript highlights the need of specific core skills for nurses working in the Obesity Clinic.

Weight bias reduction intervention among nurse practitioner students using simulation-based experiences

“…Nurse practitioners with favorable beliefs and attitudes toward patients living with obesity can provide the most holistic care for their patients. In addition, they succeed in looking beyond their individual opinions and providing care for diseases or illnesses related to obesity (Barrea et al, 2021). This study's strengths include that it focuses on a WBR intervention among NP students as part of their clinical curriculum.…”

Nurses' and Nursing Students' Perceptions Toward People Living with Obesity: A Scoping Review Protocol

“…With nearly half of the global healthcare workforce consisting of nurses, who often serve as the primary healthcare providers patients encounter (World Health Organization, 2022), it is essential to explore nurses' perspectives on weight bias. Nurses play a central role in providing care to PLO, especially if they have comorbid conditions requiring strict follow-up procedures (Barrea et al, 2021). Nurses are instrumental in promoting healthy lifestyle choices, disseminating health information to the public, and developing and implementing health interventions (Lazarou & Kouta, 2010).…”