Physical activity is very great for the body. With physical activity and exercise the body is able to work to grow stronger. The body systems are able to build in strength as well as helping with immunological problems. As nurses it is important to assess whether or not individuals partake in physical activities. Living a sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor health, increases the chances for chronic problems, and may also lead to mental issues such as depression and anxiety. According to Westcott et. al. (2017), physical exercise can help make “changes in body weight, BMI, percent fat, fat weight, lean weight, WC, HC, W/H ratio, SBP, DBP, TBC, LDL, HDL, TRI, and HbA1c.”

Changes in these things can help with preventing certain diseases. According to Jarvis (2015), physical activity “shows a reduced risk of death from [cardiovascular diseases] CVDs and respiratory illness.” Cardiovascular diseases that could be prevented by physical activity includes high blood pressure, strokes, heart attacks, etc. As nurses it is not only important to assess whether or not the individual is meeting their physical activity needs, but ensuring that they provide teaching and resources to any individuals that may need help when coming to physical activities. Nurses should assess patients to see what kind of activities they like to do and try to plan out resources that the patient can utilize when leaving the health care setting to ensure that they will continue getting physical activity. Nurses can work alongside with physical therapists and social workers to make these patients needs met. This is an important aspect as it can help with patient care and orientation to the importance of physical activity and such. Many patients may refuse these actions as they may feel uncomfortable being physically active while they are sick; however, it must be taught to the patients in order for them to understand how important it is. 

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