title: Nutrition knowledge and attitudes of allied health and fitness students.
abstract: Using survey methodology, this study assessed the nutrition-related knowledge and attitudes of nursing (n = 54), physical therapy (n = 48), and fitness (n = 62) students. The mean scores on the nutrition knowledge test were 21 points (SD 3.8 points, range 8 to 28 points) for nursing, 21 points (SD 3.0 points, range 15 to 27 points) for physical therapy, and 22 points (SD 3.9 points, range 15 to 31 points) for fitness students, out of a possible 32 points. Students with previous exposure to nutrition education earned significantly (p < .05) higher scores. The majority of students planned to comply with, and to encourage client compliance with recommendations to decrease fat intakes, maintain a healthy weight, and include fruits and vegetables in their daily diet, and generally regarded nutrition as important to their chosen profession. Findings suggest a need to enhance and reinforce key nutrition principles and to promote a greater appreciation for the role of the registered dietitian as a valuable member of the health care team. Interactive nutrition education activities throughout the health sciences curricula and presentations by registered dietitians describing their job responsibilities may help attain these outcomes. In conclusion, findings suggest a need to promote increased interdisciplinary collaboration among future allied health professionals to provide evidenced base care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nutrition and Hospitality Management, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
authors.forename: David T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: McArthur
authors.forename: Robin Webb
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Corbett
mesh_terms: D000488:Allied Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D001835:Body Weight; D004032:Diet; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty / Q000193:education*; D013338:Students, Nursing