University of Twente Student Theses
How youth nurses support healthy eating practices for low SES families : a qualitative research study
Barneveld, E. (2024) How youth nurses support healthy eating practices for low SES families : a qualitative research study.
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| Abstract: | Background. The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has increased significantly in the last decade. Social economic status or position (SES or SEP) is considered a significant factor in the chance of getting overweight or obese. Healthy eating practices are crucial in preventing obesity, but families with low SES often encounter limitations and lack of nutritional knowledge, resulting in poorer eating practice. The GGD (Gemeentelijke Gezondheids Dienst / Municipal health service) and the CHC's (Children's Health Clinics) are essential in promoting healthy eating practices among families with young children. CHC's offer education and support to parents. Further research is necessary to gain insight into the challenges healthcare professionals face in assisting low SES families and the methods healthcare professionals use to provide support to these families regarding healthy eating practices. Methodology. A literature review was performed to learn more about the perspectives of healthcare professionals working with young children in nutrition and weight related settings on different methods, experiences and approaches to the subjects and their effectiveness. Desk research was conducted to learn about the publicly available information on the GGD websites and the GGD's use of social media regarding promotion of healthy eating practices. To investigate current methods and tools used by the CHC, semi structured interviews were held with two youth nurses and two trainee youth nurses at different CHC locations. Questions related to the current situation, barriers and facilitators, low SES families and the differences in support with higher SES families, opportunities regarding improvement, and education of the CHC's youth nurses. Results. The literature review conducted in June 2024, resulted in the screening of initially 108 papers, which led to two papers being included in the review. Findings included how the Confident Body Confident Child (CBCC) and Eat Healthy Stay Active (EHSA) training were perceived positively by increasing awareness of one’s practices and gaining a better understanding of the low SES population. Desk research established online information wasn’t targeted to specific needs from different group, for example there wasn't supporting visual material available to make information easier to understand for those who might stuggle with reading health-related information. Social media posts weren’t used to reach the low SES population specific. Interviews resulted in finding barriers, facilitators, methodologies, materials and other tools used to provide support to low SES families regarding healthy eating practices. Youth nurses expressed perceptions on how to improve provision of this support. Conclusion. The study underscores the challenges and opportunities healthcare professionals face in promoting healthy eating among low SES families. It highlights the need for tailored communication strategies, such as using simplified language, visual aids, and culturally inclusive methods to overcome barriers like knowledge gaps and cultural differences. The research emphasizes the importance of experiential learning for healthcare providers to build empathy and understanding and enhance the effectiveness of provided support. Key tools identified include motivational interviewing, guided questioning, and the CBCC program's resources. Engaging community leaders is seen as a promising strategy for connecting with low SES families. However, the study notes that digital tools like social media and websites are underutilized for this purpose. The study recommends further research to refine these strategies, involve more perspectives, and explore the potential of digital platforms in reaching underserved populations. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | TNW: Science and Technology |
| Programme: | Health Sciences MSc (66851) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/103419 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
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