Exploring Nurses' Experiences of Motivational Interviewing in Addressing Childhood Obesity
Document information
| Author | Amanda J Jarden |
| instructor | Dr Mark Wallace-Bell |
| School | University of Canterbury |
| Major | Health Sciences |
| Document type | thesis |
| Year of publication | 2018 |
| Place | Christchurch |
| Language | English |
| Number of pages | 241 |
| Format | |
| Size | 5.45 MB |
- Motivational Interviewing
- Childhood Obesity
- Health Communication
Summary
I. Introduction
The introduction of the study highlights the critical issue of childhood obesity and the role of motivational interviewing (MI) in addressing this challenge. The alarming statistics indicate that 11% of children in New Zealand are classified as above healthy weight. This situation necessitates effective communication strategies between nurses and families, particularly in sensitive discussions regarding weight. The study aims to explore the experiences of nurses during the weight-related referral process, emphasizing the importance of effective communication. The introduction sets the stage for understanding how MI can facilitate better outcomes in childhood obesity management.
1.1 The Weight Issue
The weight issue among children is a pressing concern, with rising rates of obesity prompting governmental action. The New Zealand government has implemented a childhood weight reduction plan, which includes initiatives like the Raising Healthy Kids target. This target aims to identify high-weight children and ensure they receive appropriate referrals for health evaluations. The study underscores the necessity of targeted interventions and the role of nurses in facilitating these referrals. Effective communication is paramount, as it influences the acceptance of health recommendations by families.
II. Methodology
The methodology section outlines the research design employed to investigate nurses' experiences with MI. An interpretive phenomenological approach was utilized, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the subjective experiences of nurses. Data collection involved a combination of questionnaires focused on competencies and recorded interviews. This dual approach provided a comprehensive understanding of the challenges nurses face in applying MI techniques. The study's findings reveal that while nurses have received some training in MI, their confidence and effectiveness in using these skills remain uncertain. The methodology emphasizes the need for further training and support to enhance nurses' capabilities in motivational interviewing.
2.1 Data Collection
Data collection was a critical component of the research, involving both quantitative and qualitative methods. The use of questionnaires allowed for the assessment of nurses' competencies in MI, while interviews provided rich, narrative data on their experiences. The thematic analysis of interview data revealed common themes related to the challenges of discussing weight with families. Nurses reported feeling unprepared for these conversations, particularly when parents were resistant to acknowledging weight issues. This highlights the importance of training and support for nurses to improve their communication skills in sensitive contexts.
III. Results and Discussion
The results of the study indicate that nurses perceive weight-related conversations as challenging, particularly when families are unaccepting of the weight issue. The findings suggest that nurses often resort to familiar directive communication techniques, such as referring families back to general practitioners when discussions become difficult. This reliance on traditional methods may hinder the effective application of MI, which is designed to empower families to engage in healthier behaviors. The discussion emphasizes the need for ongoing training in client-centered communication to equip nurses with the skills necessary for navigating sensitive topics effectively.
3.1 Implications for Practice
The implications of the study are significant for nursing practice and childhood obesity management. Effective MI training can enhance nurses' confidence and ability to engage families in meaningful conversations about weight. By adopting a non-judgmental approach and using alternative language, nurses can foster a supportive environment that encourages families to participate in health interventions. The study advocates for the integration of MI training into nursing curricula and ongoing professional development, ensuring that nurses are well-equipped to address the complexities of childhood obesity in their practice.
Document reference
- Motivational Interviewing for Above Healthy Weight Children
- Nurses’ Use of Motivational Interviewing Trending Towards a Positive Effect
- Nurses’ Use of Motivational Interviewing with no Significant Differences
- Nurses’ use of MI with Mixed Results
- key Studies for In-Depth Review