Fit living in progress – fighting lifelong obesity patterns (FLIP-FLOP): A nurse practitioner delivered intervention

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of a nurse practitioner (NP) delivered program, which targets obesity, in a real-world primary care setting.MethodA small, descriptive study was conducted in a clinic for low-income patients. Sixteen adult participants, who are obese, attended 5 individual primary care office visits, occurring every 2 weeks over 12-weeks. The NP healthcare provider delivered pre-planned behavioral interventions at each visit. Data comprised the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP II), additional surveys and physical measures.ResultsParticipants reported improvement in health responsibility, physical activity, nutrition, spiritual growth, stress management and motivation for healthy living (p < 0.05). Diastolic blood pressure declined (p < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure and body mass index declined non-significantly.ConclusionAdditional research is necessary to determine success of the program over time with larger numbers of diverse participants, healthcare providers and primary care practice sites.