Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Deborah Lewis

Abstract

More than two-thirds of Americans are obese or overweight. Obesity rates have risen to an epidemic level, contributing to health inequalities and leading to reduced health-related quality of life. When obese and overweight persons face weight bias by health care providers, fragmented care may occur. Ensuring positive relationships with healthcare providers is important in helping those who are obese or overweight. The purpose of this project was to understand the factors that contribute to negative weight bias in the provider-patient relationship and to identify the most effective interventions that would reduce stigmatizing attitudes and support self-awareness, acceptance, and resolution for both patient and provider. The theoretical foundations of cultural humility and self-appraisal in interpersonal relations were applied to inform this project. The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews framed this systematic literature review. Additionally, Melnyk's levels of evidence was used to evaluate each article. Articles for inclusion were limited to those published no earlier than 2013, full text available, English language, and peer-reviewed. The search identified 102 articles, of which 26 were selected for the final review. Five articles met the criteria for Level VII (opinions of experts), 18 were Level VI (qualitative studies), 1 was a Level V (qualitative review), and 2 were Level 1 (systematic review). The analysis of evidence clarified the issues related to weight bias and supported recommendations for nursing practice improvement in upholding the dignity of all persons with regard to weight. Nurses can pioneer positive social change by becoming role models who advocate for equality in healthcare delivery for persons who are obese or overweight.

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