Sedentary Behavior: Considerations for the Nurse Practitioner

Recent development in sedentary behavior research has resulted in heightened awareness of this health behavior across the health care provider community, including nursing practitioners (NPs). Sedentary behavior, independent of physical activity, poses negative health implications across a person's lifespan. Although there is no consensus regarding clinical recommendations for sedentary behavior, NPs must consider sedentary behavior as a significant health risk in their patient populations. Existing research assessment tools may be adapted for use in the clinical setting. Proper assessment by the NP can lead to identifying patients at risk for sedentary behavior, with recommendations to sit less and move more.