Survey of physical activity assessment and counseling practices of Kentucky advanced registered nurse practitioners (ARNP)

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the physical activity assessment and counseling practices of Kentucky licensed ARNPs in 2001 and 2007.

Method: The same assessment and counseling questionnaire was mailed to ARNPs registered in Kentucky in April 2001 (N=1,291) and October 2007 (N=1,952). The 2001 response rate was 32.8%; 2007 responses continue to return. The questionnaire included demographic data, practice patterns, knowledge and confidence, and ARNP level of physical activity.

Findings: 2001 findings included: ARNPs primarily female (91.5%); mean age 45.2 years; mean years of practice as an ARNP 7.0. Approximately 57% of ARNPs practice was primary care clients, mean age of clients was 40.1 years, and 50% of clients were physically inactive. ARNPs assessed 67.6% of female clients for physical activity and almost 60% of male clients, and counseled for physical activity 69.3% of inactive female clients and 64.4% of inactive male clients. The most frequent method of assessment for physical activity was questioning the client about physical activity. The most frequent counseling for physical activity was brisk walking 3-4 mph, 30 minutes three times per week. 2007 data entry and analysis will be complete in summer 2008,

Discussion: Kentucky continues to have one of the highest levels of physical inactivity. Methods to increase activity are significant to the health of the population. Evaluation of current methods and changes over time of assessment and counseling will be identified, followed by recommendation of interventions to increase the effectiveness of primary care provider assessment and counseling.