Abstract
Childhood and adolescent obesity has become a problem of epidemic proportions. Because students spend most of their waking hours at school, school nurses have the potential to provide early treatment and prevention of childhood obesity, which could have long-term health and psychological effects into adulthood. The purpose of this study is to determine California school nurses 'perceptions of their role in management of obesity within the school setting. Data was obtainedfrom a convenience sample of 163 credentialed California school nurses selected by invitation at three school districts and by volunteer participation at the California School Nurse Organization 's State Conference during the business portion of the meeting. The researchers ' sought to quantitatively determine what school nurses' perceived role in the management of obesity is in the school setting. School nurses cite lack of time and competence to properly manage and monitor obesity. School nurses also noted lack ofpolicy and procedures in place to accurately assess and monitor body mass index. School nurses also cited lack of support from parents, teachers, staff, and community on this potentially life threatening disease.