Cognitive Determinants of Physical Activity Intention among Iranian Nurses: An Application of Integrative Model of Behavior Prediction

Abstract

Introduction: Sedentary lifestyle and physical in- activity is recognized as a risk factor for various diseases. Nurses have a special place among healthcare team members, and their numerous roles require nurses to have good physical fitness. The present study aimed to determine cognitive factors related to doing regular physical activity among a sample of Iranian nurses based on the integrative model of behavior prediction (IMBP).& para;& para;Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 on a sample of 418 nurses who were working in medical teaching hospitals in Isfahan and Sanandaj in Iran. Participants were randomly selected proportionally to staff size among different hospitals. A structured questionnaire was applied for collecting data and data were analyzed by SPSS version 16 using correlations, liner and logistic regression statistical tests.& para;& para;Results: Mean age of the subjects was 33.1 years (range, 21-53 years). 66.6, 25.4, and 8 had low, moderate, and severe physical activity, respectively. The best predictors for doing regular physical activity were skills with OR of 1.203 95% CI: 1.093, 1.324, and attitude with OR of 1.023 95% CI: 1.023, 1.034. The IMBP variable, accounted for 34% of the variation in the outcome measure of the intention to do physical activity.& para;& para;Conclusion: Based on our result, it seems that designing and implementation of educational programs to increase attitude and skills regarding doing physical activity may be useful in the promotion of physical activity.