Evaluation of technology to identify and assess overweight children and adolescents.
OBJECTIVE
The current obesity epidemic has produced a generation of children that may be the first to have a life expectancy shorter than their parents. To address the obesity epidemic, experts have published recommendations for providers. Research suggests the publication of guidelines may not change provider behavior.


METHODS
This study evaluates computer assistance for implementing obesity guidelines in school-based health centers.


RESULTS
Significant improvements in identification and assessment of obesity in children with technology support were noted.


CONCLUSIONS
Computer decision support shows promise for promoting the implementation of current recommendations by supporting providers in identifying, assessing, and providing tailored recommendations for children at risk of obesity.
Gance-Cleveland
Bonnie
B
Arizona State University, College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, Arizona, USA. bonnie.gance-cleveland@asu.edu
Gilbert
Lynn H
LH
Kopanos
Taynin
T
Gilbert
Kevin C
KC
D000293:Adolescent; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D002648:Child; D015362:Child Nutrition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003120:Colorado; D003151:Community Health Centers; D003658:Decision Making, Computer-Assisted; D003661:Decision Support Techniques; D005260:Female; D019983:Guideline Adherence / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration; D009731:Nursing Audit; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D050177:Overweight / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012572:School Health Services