Application of structural equation modelling in designing obesity management training model for primary care nurses in health clinic, Pahang

Abstract

Primary care nurses play a vital role in preventing adults’ obesity by delivering effective obesity-related health education. An effective health education related to obesity requires knowledgeable and skilful primary care nurses. Obesity training has traditionally been provided to primary care nurses through continuing nursing education activities such as conferences, seminars, and workshops. Despite such trainings, the prevalence of obesity in the Malaysian community is still rising, indicating that obesity-related training for primary care nurses may be insufficient. As a result, it is crucial to examine the obesity training needs of primary care nurses to prepare for them to play an effective role in obesity management. This study aims to develop a obesity management training model for primary care nurses to help address the increasing numbers of obese patients in Malaysia. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted, and random sampling method was applied. Two hundred and thirty-four nurses were recruited from a variety of primary health clinics throughout Pahang. After obtaining informed consent, the questionnaires were distributed to the participants. Based on the findings of the training needs assessment, a training model was designed using Partial Least Square-Structure Equation Modelling and revealed a significant positive association between knowledge and practice in managing obesity among primary care nurses. This suggests that having a solid knowledge base is crucial for effective obesity management. However, the relationships between attitude and practice, as well as belief and practice, are not statistically significant, indicating that attitudes and beliefs may not be the sole determinants of actual practice. On the other hand, the relationship between opportunity and practice is statistically significant, highlighting the importance of creating more opportunities for nurses to actively engage in obesity management practices. Overall, these findings emphasise the significance of knowledge and opportunities in influencing the practice of managing obesity among primary care nurses and suggest areas for intervention and improvement in healthcare settings. Policymakers can develop policies and guidelines for nurses’ training that support evidence-based obesity management practices in primary care settings. By addressing knowledge gaps, promoting positive attitudes, strengthening beliefs in the efficacy of obesity management strategies, and creating more opportunities for nurses, healthcare systems can improve the quality of care for patients with obesity and contribute to better public health outcomes.