Physical Activity Assessments for Obesity Management in Primary Care

Abstract

Obesity is an epidemic and chronic disease that affects health and quality of life. Physical activity is a modification encouraged in obesity care due to its benefits which reach beyond weight loss in obesity management and influence multiple body and organ systems. The purpose of the proposed quasi-experimental, evidence-based improvement project is to explore if routinely assessing for physical activity in the primary care setting using a standardized screening tool can address physical inactivity. The anticipated number of participants utilizing G*Power analysis software is a minimum of 15 and will be comprised of individuals from St. Louis, MO. The evidence-based practice intervention is the implementation of a standardized physical activity assessment screening questionnaire in the primary care setting. The primary outcome of physical activity level will be measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire- Short Form. Utilizing a tool to identify physical inactivity has the potential to impact the knowledge of providers regarding the current trend in physical activity/inactivity and assist them in the identification, tailored management, communication, and improvement of clinical outcomes related to the difficult phenomenon of obesity