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Australian parents' experiences when discussing their child's overweight and obesity with the Maternal and Child Health nurse: A qualitative study

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  • Kelly Hardy
  • Leesa Hooker
  • Lael Ridgway
  • Kristina Edvardsson

Abstract

Aims and objectives To explore parents' experiences when discussing child overweight issues with the Maternal and Child Health nurse. Background Community‐based child and family health nurses are in a unique position to discuss child overweight and obesity with parents. However, studies of parents' experiences in this context are lacking. Method Ten mothers of children identified as overweight or obese from regional Victoria, Australia, were interviewed in 2017. Data were analysed using an inductive qualitative thematic approach. The COREQ guidelines were used to ensure study rigour. Results In summary, the analysis revealed experiences of Maternal and Child Health nurses “brushing over” the topic, with a lack of information provided about how to tackle the problem at home. The interpersonal relationship aspect of continuity of care was described as facilitating awareness of the child's overweight, although mothers expressed confusion about what constituted a “healthy weight range.” While some mothers perceived the nurse's role was to offer evidence‐based information and support, others saw the family doctor as the appropriate health professional to address the problem. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that parents are often left unsure how to manage their child's weight despite the child being identified as overweight or obese by their Maternal and Child Health nurse. Relevance to clinical practice Discussions about overweight and obesity may be facilitated by continuity of care where established relationships serve as a facilitator for effective communication. The findings further indicate a need for more structured support of Maternal and Child Health nurses working with parents of young children identified as overweight or obese, including ongoing education, skill development and improved understanding of parental health literacy and its links to childhood obesity.

Suggested Citation

  • Kelly Hardy & Leesa Hooker & Lael Ridgway & Kristina Edvardsson, 2019. "Australian parents' experiences when discussing their child's overweight and obesity with the Maternal and Child Health nurse: A qualitative study," Journal of Clinical Nursing, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 28(19-20), pages 3610-3617, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:jocnur:v:28:y:2019:i:19-20:p:3610-3617
    DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14956
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nerissa Crombie & Leesa Hooker & Sonia Reisenhofer, 2017. "Nurse and midwifery education and intimate partner violence: a scoping review," Journal of Clinical Nursing, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 26(15-16), pages 2100-2125, August.
    2. Eimear Keane & Richard Layte & Janas Harrington & Patricia M Kearney & Ivan J Perry, 2012. "Measured Parental Weight Status and Familial Socio-Economic Status Correlates with Childhood Overweight and Obesity at Age 9," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 7(8), pages 1-9, August.
    3. Commission, Productivity, 2011. "Early Childhood Development Workforce," Research Reports, Productivity Commission, Government of Australia, number 48.
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