Problems and Barriers, and the Approaches to Solve in Losing Weight of Obese Nursing Students at Kuakarun Faculty of Nursing in Navamindradhiraj University

Abstract

The purpose of this mixed methods study, Explanatory Sequential Design, is to survey the body mass index of nursing students at Kuakarun Faculty of Nursing in Navamindradhiraj University; to study the problems and barriers in losing weight of obese nursing students; and to study the approaches solved in losing weight. This study was preceded to two phases from May to October, 2014. Phase 1, the quantitative method, a sample was 804 nursing students on 1st-4th years of Bachelor of Nursing Science Program in academic year 2014. Data were collected through the weight and height assessment form and the Body Mass Index Formula. The descriptive statistic analysis was shown by frequencies and percentile via the Asian BMI criterion and nutrition levels, and via the nursing student year levels. Phase 2, the qualitative method, the obsessed nursing student group (BMI ≥ 25 Kg/M²)the voluntary Informants, was selected by purposive sampling. The data were collected by in-depth interview, tape recording, field note, structural in-depth interview, and personal data sheet. Dialogues from In-depth interview were
transcribed verbatim and analyzed by thematic analysis of Leonard’s method. Data of 15 interviewed informants were saturated. The result was found that 0.62 % of nursing students were underweight; 92.29 % of nursing students were normal weight; 2.74 % of nursing students were overweight; and 4.35 % of nursing students were obese. The result was implied that 3 factors were the problems and barriers to
unsolve in weight loss of obese nursing students. Firstly, the predisposing factor was composed of 5 sub-themes: a) habits of obese (be wasteful, be considerate, be lazy, be self indulgent, giving excuses); b) positive attitude to food; c) lack of coping ability; d) lack of self control; and e) lack of inspiration. Secondly, the precipitating factor was consisted of 2 sub-themes: a) particular nurse professional; and b) educational administration policy emphasized academically. Thirdly, the reinforcing factor was comprised of 2 sub-themes: a) lack of promoted health service system; and b) negatively emotional family support. The approaches to solve in losing weight as the enabling factor was consisted of 3 sub-themes: a)
social support from nursing faculty; b) social support from friend; and c) social support from family. This may lead to a better understanding of problems and barriers in losing weight, and to develop the effective weight-loss program. It may be a guideline for obese adolescents to change self habits to get well-being, in later.