A 10-year-old weighs 99 lb (44.9 kg) and has a BMI of 24.8 kg/m² (95th percentile). Which is the most important assessment for the nurse to make before initiating a weight loss plan?

Question

A 10-year-old weighs 99 lb (44.9 kg) and has a BMI of 24.8 kg/m² (>95th percentile). Which is the most important assessment for the nurse to make before initiating a weight loss plan?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Before initiating a treatment plan for weight loss, it is most important to make certain that the child and family are ready for change. Attempting to engage the family and child in weight loss strategies and dietary changes before they are ready could easily result in frustration, treatment failure, and reluctance to try new approaches in the future. The nurse needs to explore the reasons and desire for weight loss by assessing: Motivation and confidence Willingness to change behaviors and food choices Perceived importance of a weight loss treatment plan Confidence in ability to take on healthier eating habits (Option A) Physical activity is an important component of a weight loss treatment plan, but it is not the priority nursing assessment. (Option B) The family's eating habits will have a strong influence on the child's ability to make changes and need to be assessed. However, it is more important to assess the family's readiness for change. (Option C) Assessing the family's financial resources is important in planning education about healthy food choices, but it is not the priority nursing action. Educational objective: Before initiating a treatment program that requires a client and family to make major lifestyle and behavior changes, the nurse needs to assess readiness for change. Motivation and a desire for change are the keys to successful weight loss.

A 10-Year-Old Weighs 99 Lb (44