Obesity in Nursing

Source: Nursingcrib.com

It is true that people in healthcare do not always lead the healthiest lives. There are doctors who are overweight, eat unhealthy foods and smoke.


Obesity in the USA is an ongoing concern, and nurses are not immune to the problem. Click here for full access to a study published in The Journal of Nursing Administration. In an analysis of 2,103 female nurses, 55% were obese/overweight. When compared to non-obese nursing colleagues, long work hours and jobs with decreased physical exertion were associated with obesity.


It is ironic that obesity is so prevalent in healthcare workers, who, in theory, should model healthy living. Of course, weight loss requires personal responsibility and a fair amount of self-motivation. Regardless, healthcare systems should strive to promote a work environment that encourages a healthy lifestyle. This includes promotion of walking the stairs and the availability of healthy meals and snacks in the cafeteria. Unhealthful scheduling of shifts should be restricted.


Working in healthcare facilities must allow for healthy habits.