Date

Summer 2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Department

College of Nursing

First Advisor

Brooke Patterson

Abstract

Problem Statement: The prevalence of obesity continues to increase globally, with greater prevalence in the southern United States, resulting in higher costs to the healthcare system and greater risks for the development of other chronic diseases. Purpose: Determine if implementing the 5A’s of Obesity Management among primary care providers in a rural, low-income healthcare setting will increase the diagnosis of obesity and result in a subsequent decrease in weight among patients who are obese. Methods: An educational session was held to familiarize providers with the 5A’s of Obesity Management and the importance of obtaining and documenting proper height and weight on every patient. Discussion of the 5A’s of Obesity Management occurred during an initial encounter with the patient, and BMI was recorded on an intake form. Patients were encouraged to follow up monthly for three months. Inclusion Criteria: English-speaking adults aged 18 or older with a BMI greater than 30 kg/m2. Analysis: After project implementation, electronic medical records were analyzed to determine if an increase in the diagnosis of obesity occurred after the study. To determine if there was an impact on weight reduction, paired sample t-tests were used to evaluate patients’ weight at their first visit versus their last visit. Implications for Practice: The implementation of the 5A’s of Obesity Management by primary health providers can result in an increase in the diagnosis of obesity and weight loss for patients, thereby potentially decreasing costs for the healthcare system and the development of other chronic diseases.

Rights

© 2024, Holly H. Rowell

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