Nurses’ attitudes towards obese patients: a review of the literature

Obesity is a major public health issue and the number of obese people in healthcare settings is increasing. Nurses are likely to encounter obese patients, and they have a key role to play both in managing and preventing obesity. However, nurses are not immune to the prejudice against obesity that is prevalent in society in general. A literature review found several studies listing examples of negative views and attitudes among nurses towards obese patients. The literature also identified factors that increase the risk of such attitudes, and what needs to improve so nurses are better equipped to provide patient-centred, non-judgemental care. • Attitudes towards obesity and extent of the obesity epidemic in the UK • Nurses’ views, perceptions and attitudes relating to obesity • What nurses need to help them provide adequate care to obese people