Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Embargo Period
5-10-2015
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Family Nurse Practioner
Year Degree Awarded
2015
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
Childhood Obesity, Lets Go Maine, African American and Latino children
Advisor
Lisa Chiodo
DNP Project Chair
Pamela Aselton
DNP Project Member Name
Emma Dundon
DNP Project Outside Member Name
Catherine Winkler
Abstract
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a major problem in America. The aim of this research translation project was to put into practice an evidence based childhood obesity intervention (Let’s Go! Maine, 5210) in a primary care setting. The rising rates of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents have been accompanied by an increase in adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Data from the Center for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) demonstrates higher rates of obesity in African American and Latino children, with a prevalence rate of 22.4% in Latinos and 20.2% African American children.
METHODS: This evidenced based intervention employed a pre and post study design with a convenience sample of ten participants age 10 to 18, identified as having a body mass index (BMI) equal or greater than 85th percentile. Ten adolescents completed the data collection process and a one and half hour weekly educational session along with follow up calls.
RESULT: Statistical analysis comparing the pre and posttest answers of the 5210 Healthy Habits questionnaire revealed that the questions can act as a prompt for educational interventions thereby increasing the child’s awareness of healthy habits.
CONCLUSION: Findings suggests that although obesity management can be complex, early recognition and intervention of childhood obesity can promote a child’s knowledge about healthy lifestyle and promote healthy food choices leading to improved BMI outcome.
Key Words: Child hood obesity, African American and Latino children, Let’s Go! Maine-5 2 1 0 program
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