| Learning Objective #1: Analyze assessment data profiles of youth to identify those at risk of developing chronic disease (cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes) | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Discuss integration of traditional clinic data with new point-of-care technology for blood values to develop algorithm for risk profile in youth |
INTEGRATING RESEARCH AND PRACTICE: Childhood obesity has doubled in the last three decades in North America. Increasing sedentary behavior complicates youth health. These factors, with family history and smoking, influence several measurable outcomes: blood pressure, body mass index, and serum glucose, insulin, lipids/lipoproteins, and hemoglobin A1C. Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are emerging in children, linked to lifestyle and physical outcomes. Nurses must analyze assessment findings to identify children in need of intervention. A series of research studies has been implemented at a nurse-managed clinic and mobile unit providing care for under-insured families in northwest United States. Retrospective chart review identified childhood risk factors, and a prospective study is integrating physical assessment and technology to identify children at risk. Intervention tailored to the particular population of children served is being planned. Physical assessment of body weight, height, and body mass index; blood pressure; acanthosis nigricans; smoking history; and family history of chronic diseases is performed on all children/adolescents. Point-of-care measurement of glucose, lipids and hemoglobin A1C is used as part of research protocol to assist in establishment of an algorithm for care to identify risk factors. Children with multiple risks are invited to participate in evaluation of dietary intake, VO2 peak, and fasting analysis of serum glucose, insulin, and lipids. The public health problem of increasing childhood chronic disease has guided data analysis. Graduate and undergraduate students, nurses, and nurse practitioners all participate in data collection. Nurse researchers at the College of Nursing perform protocols and data management. A biostatistician participates in study design and statistical analysis. Two companies recently obtained approval for point-of-care technology and provide training and access to machines at a reasonable cost. This creative, innovative approach is designed to improve the health of children by early identification and subsequent prevention of debilitating chronic diseases.
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