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Brogan E, Rossiter C, Fethney J, Duffield C, Denney-Wilson E. Start Healthy and Stay Healthy: A workplace health promotion intervention for new graduate nurses: A mixed-methods study. J Adv Nurs 2021; 78:541-556. [PMID: 34846073 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study explored the acceptability of a workplace health promotion intervention embedded into a transition to practice (TTP) programme to assist new graduate nurses in establishing healthy dietary and physical activity (PA) behaviours from career commencement. DESIGN A sequential mixed methods design. METHODS The Start Healthy and Stay Healthy (SH&SH) intervention, informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel, was conducted in an Australian Local Health District. It included face-to-face education sessions, the use of a fitness tracker and twice-weekly short answer messages. Participants completed three online surveys: at orientation, 6 weeks and 6 months. A sub-sample participated in semi-structured interviews to explore their experience of the intervention. Interview data were analysed thematically. RESULTS The intervention was delivered from February to December 2019. A total of 99 nurses completed the baseline survey, 62 at 6 weeks and 69 at 6 months. After 6 months, health knowledge increased as participants correctly identified recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables and PA. Fruit consumption increased at 6 months with little change to vegetable intake. Takeaway consumption decreased, but consumption of some discretionary foods increased. Across the three time points, there was a low engagement in PA during leisure time. The interviews identified three themes: (1) Support of Colleagues and Peers, (2) The Work Environment and (3) Engagement with SH&SH. CONCLUSION Providing a targeted intervention for new graduate nurses embedded into a TTP programme improved their health knowledge, some dietary behaviours, and participation in PA by some participants. IMPACT Ensuring a healthy nursing workforce is critical to retaining staff. Implementing a workplace health promotion intervention that targets new graduate nurses can help them adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle behaviours to support them in their future careers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Brogan
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chris Rossiter
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Judith Fethney
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christine Duffield
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Denney-Wilson
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Cheong ZY, Lopez V, Tam WSW. Barriers to healthy eating among nurses working in hospitals: A meta-synthesis. J Adv Nurs 2021; 78:314-331. [PMID: 34477228 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore the barriers to healthy eating among nurses working in hospitals. DESIGN Meta-synthesis. DATA SOURCES Published and unpublished papers were identified through electronic searches on PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, COCHRANE Library, Food Science and Technology Abstract, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses and OpenGrey from inception until 6 September 2020. English-language primary qualitative or mixed-method studies on barriers to healthy eating among hospital nurses were included. Mixed-method studies were eligible if their qualitative data were distinguishable. Studies on nursing assistants, enrolled nurses, nursing students, and patient-care assistants were excluded, as well as studies without full-texts, correlational studies, quantitative surveys, exploratory studies, conference abstracts and reviews. METHODS The studies were appraised using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Qualitative data were extracted using Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Data Extraction Tool. Data synthesis followed two stages, meta-summary and meta-synthesis, proposed by Sandelowski & Barroso. RESULTS Twelve studies published from 2008 to 2020 involving 618 hospital nurses were included. The meta-summary generated 10 themes, which were meta-synthesized into three interrelated themes: personal barriers (e.g. nonchalance towards unhealthy eating), interprofessional and patient-related barriers (e.g. sharing unhealthy food), and organizational barriers (e.g. overwhelming work demands). CONCLUSION Insufficient self-control and self-confidence, nonchalance and negligence towards healthy eating and cultural beliefs that oppose the practice of healthy eating (personal barriers), exposure of unhealthy food practices in wards (interprofessional and patient-related barriers) and hospital cafeterias, overwhelming work exigencies and institutional constraints (organizational barriers) hindered nurses to achieve wholesome healthy eating. IMPACT Many hospital nurses' encountered challenges in healthy eating, thereby potentially jeopardizing their health and work performance. The findings emphasized the need of a joint effort by hospital nurses, families and colleagues, and hospital institutions to overcome the barriers to healthy eating faced by the hospital nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zu Yu Cheong
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Violeta Lopez
- School of Nursing, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China.,School of Nursing, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Wai San Wilson Tam
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Perceived Facilitators and Barriers to Nigerian Nurses' Engagement in Health Promoting Behaviors: A Socio-Ecological Model Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041314. [PMID: 32085607 PMCID: PMC7068510 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Nurses make up the single largest healthcare professional group in the Nigerian healthcare system. As frontline healthcare providers, they promote healthy lifestyles to patients and families. However, the determinants of Nigerian nurses’ personal health promoting behaviors (HPBs) remain unknown. Utilizing the socio-ecological model (SEM) approach, this study aimed to explore the perceived facilitators and barriers to Nigerian nurses’ engagement in HPBs. HPBs were operationalized to comprise of healthy dietary behaviors, engagement in physical activity, low-risk alcohol consumption, and non-smoking behaviors. Our study was carried out in a large sub-urban tertiary health facility in Nigeria. Data collection was via face-to-face semi-structured interviews and participants were registered nurses (n = 18). Interview data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically to produce nine themes that were mapped onto corresponding levels of influence on the SEM. Findings show that in Nigeria, nurses perceive there to be a lack of organizational and policy level initiatives and interventions to facilitate their engagement in HPBs. The determinants of Nigerian nurses’ HPBs span across all five levels of the SEM. Nurses perceived more barriers to healthy lifestyle behaviors than facilitators. Engagement in healthy behaviors was heavily influenced by: societal and organizational infrastructure and perceived value for public health; job-related factors such as occupational stress, high workload, lack of protected breaks, and shift-work; cultural and religious beliefs; financial issues; and health-related knowledge. Organizations should provide facilities and services to support healthy lifestyle choices in Nigeria nurses. Government policies should prioritize the promotion of health through the workplace setting, by advocating the development, implementation, regulation, and monitoring of healthy lifestyle policies.
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Gupta CC, Coates AM, Dorrian J, Banks S. The factors influencing the eating behaviour of shiftworkers: what, when, where and why. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2019; 57:419-453. [PMID: 30404995 PMCID: PMC6685801 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2018-0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Shiftwork leads to altered eating patterns, with workers often eating foods at all times across the 24 h period. Strategies to reduce the burden of shiftwork on the workers should be prioritised and altering these eating patterns is an important area for change. This narrative review examines the current evidence on the individual and environmental factors influencing the eating behaviours of shiftworkers. A systematic search was conducted and yielded 62 articles. These were split into four themes that influence eating patterns; When shiftworkers eat, What type of foods shiftworkers eat, Where the food is sourced from, and Why shiftworkers choose to eat on shift. Irregular working hours was the biggest influence on when workers ate on shift, shift-type was the biggest influence on what workers ate, the majority of food was sourced from canteens and cafeterias, and socialising with colleagues was the biggest reason why workers chose to eat. While more research is needed to explore multiple industries and shift-types, and to investigate the ideal size, type and timing of food on shift, this review has highlighted that future research into shiftworker eating needs to adopt an integrative approach and consider the different individual and social contexts that influence eating patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte C Gupta
- Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory, Behaviour Brain Body Research Centre, University of South Australia, Australia
| | - Alison M Coates
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia, Australia
| | - Jill Dorrian
- Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory, Behaviour Brain Body Research Centre, University of South Australia, Australia
| | - Siobhan Banks
- Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory, Behaviour Brain Body Research Centre, University of South Australia, Australia
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5
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Allan J, Sadko K, Bell C, Johnston D. How many calories do nurses burn at work? A real-time study of nurses' energy expenditure. J Res Nurs 2019; 24:488-497. [PMID: 34394566 DOI: 10.1177/1744987119837586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nurses have high rates of overweight and obesity, and physical inactivity is one key determinant of weight gain. Aims The present study aims to quantify nurses' energy expenditure over a standard 12-hour shift to establish whether activity levels at work are too low to maintain a healthy body weight. Methods Ward-based nurses (n = 96, 90 female, mean age = 36 years, mean experience = 10 years, mean body mass index = 26.6) wore heart rate and physical activity monitors for the duration of one full working shift. Heart rate and activity data were used in combination with demographic information to estimate each nurse's energy expenditure over 12 hours. Results On average, nurses burned 2.12 kcals per minute while at work, equating to 1521 kcals/6364 kJ (SD = 403 kcals/1686 kJ) per 12-hour shift. Energy expenditure over 12 hours varied markedly between nurses (from 812 kcals/3397 kJ to 3005 kcals/12,573 kJ) but was sufficient in 72% of participants (assuming minimal resting levels of energy expenditure for the 12 hours not at work) to burn off a daily calorie intake of 2000 kcals. Conclusions Three-quarters of nurses expend more energy on working days than is required to maintain a healthy body weight if dietary intake does not exceed recommended levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Allan
- Senior Lecturer, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Cheryl Bell
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - Derek Johnston
- Emeritus Professor, School of Psychology, University of Aberdeen, UK
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Lifestyles and Health-Related Outcomes of U.S. Hospital Nurses: A Systematic Review. Nurs Outlook 2018; 66:66-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Monaghan T, Dinour L, Liou D, Shefchik M. Factors Influencing the Eating Practices of Hospital Nurses During Their Shifts. Workplace Health Saf 2017; 66:331-342. [PMID: 29224552 DOI: 10.1177/2165079917737557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing hospital nurses' dietary practices during their shifts. Semistructured interviews grounded in the Social Ecological Model focused on individual, interpersonal, organizational, and public policy factors affecting intake. Responses from 20 female nurses were qualitatively coded and categorized based on common themes. Four major themes emerged: occupational characteristics, hesitation to take breaks, influence of unhealthy food, and organizational and industry policies. Of note, nurses' perceived inability to take breaks was due to patient load, unpredictability of patient needs, reluctance to burden other nurses, a tendency to prioritize patient care over self-care, and the repercussions of working longer hours to complete work. Other influential factors included the presence of unhealthy food options, regulations restricting nurses' ability to eat and drink in the workplace, and the need for more staff. Multilevel interventions are necessary to ensure nurses take appropriate meal breaks and maintain satisfactory dietary habits.
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The effectiveness of healthy meals at work on reaction time, mood and dietary intake: a randomised cross-over study in daytime and shift workers at an university hospital. Br J Nutr 2017; 118:121-129. [PMID: 28820084 DOI: 10.1017/s000711451700191x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Our dietary habits affect both cognitive performance and mood. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of increased availability of healthy meals and water at work on healthcare staff. The study used an 8-week randomised cross-over design. A total of sixty physicians, nurses and nursing assistants, including sixteen working on shifts, were recruited. The participants received a self-selected keyhole-labelled (Nordic nutrition label) lunch, snack and bottled water during each shift throughout the intervention period. Reaction time (Go/No-Go test), mood-related scores (POMS) and dietary intake were assessed at run-in, and at the end of the intervention and the control periods. The intake of fat (P=0·030) and PUFA (P=0·003) was lower, and the intake of carbohydrate (P=0·008), dietary fibre (P=0·031) and water (P<0·001) was greater in the intervention period than in the control period. The intervention had no effect on reaction time or any of the mood-related scores in the group as a whole. In shift-working participants, the intervention period resulted in a 31·1 % lower Fatigue-Inertia Score (P=0·003), a 15·3 % higher Vigour-Activity Score (P=0·041) and a 42·7 % lower Total Mood Disturbance Score (P=0·017), whereas the only dietary component that significantly improved was water intake (P=0·034), when compared with the control period. Providing healthy meals, snacks and water during working hours seems to be an effective way of improving employees' dietary intake. Moreover, increased intake of water may be associated with beneficial effects on fatigue, vigour and total mood in shift-working healthcare staff.
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Power BT, Kiezebrink K, Allan JL, Campbell MK. Understanding perceived determinants of nurses' eating and physical activity behaviour: a theory-informed qualitative interview study. BMC OBESITY 2017; 4:18. [PMID: 28491327 PMCID: PMC5422972 DOI: 10.1186/s40608-017-0154-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unhealthy eating and physical activity behaviours are common among nurses but little is known about determinants of eating and physical activity behaviour in this population. The present study used a theoretical framework which summarises the many possible determinants of different health behaviours (the Theoretical Domains Framework; TDF) to systematically explore the most salient determinants of unhealthy eating and physical activity behaviour in hospital-based nurses. METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews based on the TDF were conducted with nurses (n = 16) to explore factors that behavioural theories suggest may influence nurses' eating and physical activity behaviour. Important determinants of the target behaviours were identified using both inductive coding (of categories emerging from the data) and deductive coding (of categories derived from the TDF) of the qualitative data. RESULTS Thirteen of the fourteen domains in the TDF were found to influence nurses' eating and physical activity behaviour. Within these domains, important barriers to engaging in healthy eating and physical activity behaviour were shift work, fatigue, stress, beliefs about negative consequences, the behaviours of family and friends and lack of planning. Important factors reported to enable engagement with healthy eating and physical activity behaviours were beliefs about benefits, the use of self-monitoring strategies, support from work colleagues, confidence, shift work, awareness of useful guidelines and strategies, good mood, future holidays and receiving compliments. CONCLUSIONS This study used a theory-informed approach by applying the TDF to identify the key perceived determinants of nurses' eating and physical activity behaviour. The findings suggest that future efforts to change nurses' eating and physical activity behaviours should consider targeting a broad range of environmental, interpersonal and intrapersonal level factors, consistent with a socio-ecological perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T. Power
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB UK
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
- Health Psychology, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Kirsty Kiezebrink
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Julia L. Allan
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
- Health Psychology, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Marion K. Campbell
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
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Nicholls R, Perry L, Duffield C, Gallagher R, Pierce H. Barriers and facilitators to healthy eating for nurses in the workplace: an integrative review. J Adv Nurs 2016; 73:1051-1065. [PMID: 27732741 DOI: 10.1111/jan.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim was to conduct an integrative systematic review to identify barriers and facilitators to healthy eating for working nurses. BACKGROUND There is growing recognition of the influence of the workplace environment on the eating habits of the workforce, which in turn may contribute to increased overweight and obesity. Overweight and obesity exact enormous costs in terms of reduced well-being, worker productivity and increased risk of non-communicable diseases. The workplace is an ideal place to intervene and support healthy behaviours. This review aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to nurses' healthy eating in the workplace. DESIGN Integrative mixed method review. DATA SOURCES Five electronic databases were searched: CINAHL, MEDLINE, PROQUEST Health and Medicine, ScienceDirect and PsycINFO. Reference lists were searched. Included papers were published in English between 2000-2016. Of 26 included papers, 21 were qualitative and five quantitative. REVIEW METHODS An integrative literature review was undertaken. Quality appraisal of included studies used standardized checklists. A social-ecological framework was used to examine workplace facilitators and constraints to healthy eating, derived from the literature. Emergent themes were identified by thematic analysis. RESULTS Review participants were Registered, Enrolled and/or Nurse Assistants primarily working in hospitals in middle or high income countries. The majority of studies reported barriers to healthy eating related to adverse work schedules, individual barriers, aspects of the physical workplace environment and social eating practices at work. Few facilitators were reported. Overall, studies found the workplace exerts a considerable negative influence on nurses' dietary intake. CONCLUSION Reorientation of the workplace to promote healthy eating among nurses is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Nicholls
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lin Perry
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christine Duffield
- Centre for Health Services Management, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Edith Cowan University, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Robyn Gallagher
- Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Heather Pierce
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Power BT, Kiezebrink K, Allan JL, Campbell MK. Effects of workplace-based dietary and/or physical activity interventions for weight management targeting healthcare professionals: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. BMC OBESITY 2014. [PMID: 26217510 PMCID: PMC4511014 DOI: 10.1186/s40608-014-0023-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of overweight and obesity is high amongst healthcare professionals and there is growing interest in delivering weight loss interventions in the workplace. We conducted a systematic review to (i) examine the effectiveness of workplace-based diet and/or physical activity interventions aimed at healthcare professionals and to (ii) identify and describe key components of effective interventions. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched. RESULTS Thirteen randomised controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, of which seven had data available for meta-analysis. Where meta-analysis was possible, studies were grouped according to length of follow-up (<12 months and ≥12 months) and behavioural target (diet only, physical activity only or diet and physical activity), with outcome data pooled using a weighted random effects model. Nine studies reported statistically significant (between-group) differences. Four studies reported being informed by a behaviour change theory. Meta-analysis of all trials reporting weight data demonstrated healthcare professionals allocated to dietary and physical activity interventions lost significantly more body weight (-3.95 Kg, [95% CI -4.96 to- 2.95 Kg]) than controls up to 12 months follow up. CONCLUSIONS Workplace diet and/or physical activity interventions targeting healthcare professionals are limited in number and are heterogeneous. To improve the evidence base, we recommend additional evaluations of theory-based interventions and adequate reporting of intervention content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian T Power
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Kirsty Kiezebrink
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Julia L Allan
- Health Psychology, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - Marion K Campbell
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, Health Sciences Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
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12
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Blake H, Malik S, Mo PKH, Pisano C. ‘Do as I say, but not as I do’: Are next generation nurses role models for health? Perspect Public Health 2011; 131:231-9. [PMID: 21999028 DOI: 10.1177/1757913911402547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Promoting healthy lifestyles plays a key role in professional nursing yet nurses do not always practice what they preach. Efforts are currently being made to improve the health of NHS staff, yet little is known about the health and lifestyle behaviours of pre-registration nurses in the UK although these individuals are our next generation of NHS employees. The aim of this study was to investigate the health behaviours and wellbeing of pre-registration nurses based at an acute NHS teaching hospital in England. Methods: In this cross-sectional questionnaire survey, 325 pre-registration nurses (50% response rate) completed a health and lifestyle questionnaire, measuring levels of physical activity, smoking and alcohol behaviour, dietary practices and general health. Results: Age ranged from 19-53 years, and 96% of the sample was female. More than half of the sample did not meet public health recommendations for physical activity. Just under one-fifth were current smokers and over three-quarters did not consume five servings of fruit/vegetables per day. Two-thirds reported exceeding the recommended maximum daily alcohol intake and around one third were classified as either overweight or obese. Those who were physically inactive were less likely to report good general health, good dietary practices and more sleep, and were more likely to report cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption than their active counterparts. Conclusions: This study indicates that the health profile of pre-registration nurses is relatively poor, and that those who are sedentary engage in other negative lifestyle behaviours also. Despite significant education relating to health promotion and health behaviours of patients being targeted at pre-registered nurses, it seems that this knowledge is not always transferred to their own behaviour. There is a need for timely intervention to establish healthy lifestyle behaviours amongst nurses early in their career.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Blake
- Division of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
| | - Sumaira Malik
- Institute for Work, Health and Organisations, University of Nottingham, International House, Jubilee Campus, Wollaton Road, Nottingham, NG8 1BB, UK
| | - Phoenix K. H. Mo
- School of Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST
| | - Charlotte Pisano
- Accident and Emergency Dept, City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham, West Midlands, B18 7QH
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Malik S, Blake H, Batt M. How healthy are our nurses? New and registered nurses compared. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 20:489-96. [PMID: 21537281 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2011.20.8.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the health behaviour of nursing staff, comparing registered and pre-registered nurses in terms of their self-reported health and lifestyle behaviour. In total, 325 pre-registered nurses and 551 registered nurses, based at the same university teaching hospital and located within an acute NHS trust, completed a self-administered health and lifestyle questionnaire survey. With the exception of smoking behaviour, registered nurses generally had a healthier lifestyle compared with pre-registered nurses. However, when examining the overall health profile of the sample, the study reveals that there is room for improvement in the health and lifestyle behaviour exhibited by both registered and pre-registered nurses. Almost half of the sample failed to meet public health recommendations for levels of physical activity, almost two-thirds did not consume five portions of fruit or vegetables daily and almost half ate foods that were high in fat and sugar content on a daily basis. These findings are alarming given the current government emphasis on the health of NHS staff and the important role that nurses play in influencing lifestyle choices among their patients. There is an urgent need to target education and support services to improve the diet and exercise habits of nursing professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumaira Malik
- Division of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham
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Zapka JM, Lemon SC, Magner RP, Hale J. Lifestyle behaviours and weight among hospital-based nurses. J Nurs Manag 2010; 17:853-60. [PMID: 19793242 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2834.2008.00923.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to (i) describe the weight, weight-related perceptions and lifestyle behaviours of hospital-based nurses, and (ii) explore the relationship of demographic, health, weight and job characteristics with lifestyle behaviours. BACKGROUND The obesity epidemic is widely documented. Worksite initiatives have been advocated. Nurses represent an important part of the hospital workforce and serve as role models when caring for patients. METHODS A sample of 194 nurses from six hospitals participated in anthropometric measurements and self-administered surveys. RESULTS The majority of nurses were overweight and obese, and some were not actively involved in weight management behaviours. Self-reported health, diet and physical activity behaviours were low, although variable by gender, age and shift. Reports of co-worker norms supported low levels of healthy behaviours. CONCLUSIONS Findings reinforce the need to address the hospital environment and culture as well as individual behaviours for obesity control. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT Nurse managers have an opportunity to consider interventions that promote a climate favourable to improved health habits by facilitating and supporting healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition and physical activity) and environmental changes. Such efforts have the potential to increase productivity and morale and decrease work-related disabilities and improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane M Zapka
- Department of Biometry, Bioinformatics and Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
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Lemon SC, Rosal MC, Zapka J, Borg A, Andersen V. Contributions of weight perceptions to weight loss attempts: differences by body mass index and gender. Body Image 2009; 6:90-6. [PMID: 19188102 PMCID: PMC2692706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2008.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Revised: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 11/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have consistently observed that women are more likely to perceive themselves as overweight compared to men. Similarly, women are more likely than men to report trying to lose weight. Less is known about the impact that self-perceived weight has on weight loss behaviors of adults and whether this association differs by gender. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis among an employee sample (n=899) to determine the association of self-perceived weight on evidence-based weight loss behaviors across genders, accounting for body mass index (BMI) and demographic characteristics. Women were more likely than men to consider themselves to be overweight across each BMI category, and were more likely to report attempting to lose weight. However, perceiving oneself to be overweight was a strong correlate for weight loss attempts across both genders. The effect of targeting accuracy of self-perceived weight status in weight loss interventions deserves research attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephenie C. Lemon
- Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Milagros C. Rosal
- Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Jane Zapka
- Division of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Epidemiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Amy Borg
- Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Victoria Andersen
- Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
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Abstract
The giving of gifts is an ancient and widespread human activity. But when the gift is given by a patient to their doctor then there may be ethical and clinical questions to consider
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean A Spence
- Academic Clinical Psychiatry, Division of Genomic Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S5 7JT.
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