What Are the Challenges of School Nurses in South Korea in Managing Obese Children From Low-Income Households?

Abstract

Given that the obesity rate among school-age children is increasing, school nurses can play a vital role in managing obesity and encouraging healthy living in school settings. Obese children from low-income backgrounds are more vulnerable than other students and require more careful attention and intervention. This qualitative study aimed to explore and understand the barriers recognized by school nurses in managing obesity in low-income household children. A focus group interview was conducted with 17 school nurses working at an elementary school. Children, home, school, political and structural, and social areas were revealed as intricate factors in obesity management. This study can help understand school nurses’ obstacles in managing obese children from low-income families and can help them prepare practical measures to overcome these obstacles.