Nursing Students’ Health Behaviors Topic of Ohio University-Zanesville Research Project

Ohio University-Zanesville professors Sally Fusner, PhD, RN and Sharon Staib, MS, RN of Nursing, along with Kitty Consolo, PhD of Health Sciences, recently conducted a study of health behaviors of nursing students.  The results of the research have been published in Teaching and Learning in Nursing.  The study surveyed 159 nursing students and concluded that improvement is needed in the areas of physical activity and weight control.   As a result of their research, the three professors recommend that nursing educators address these issues within the curriculum so future nurses are able to model healthful behaviors for their patients. 

Fusner and Staib took the research results a step further when they presented “Preparing Nurses to be Health Care Leaders of Tomorrow” for nearly 100 nursing students at Ohio University-Zanesville.  During their presentation, they shared the importance of stress management and health topics to help students cope as learners and in their everyday lives.  Although the presentation was primarily for the nursing students, the tips offered were universal for anyone who works or attends school.  The presenters reminded students that exercising at least thirty minutes a day, three times a week, not skipping meals, and taking time for yourself are all critical components of a well-balanced life.

            For more information about their research, contact the faculty members by calling 740-453-0762 in Zanesville or 740-432-4404 in Cambridge.