An Education Program Based on Theory of Planned Behavior to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle Among Hospital Administrative Staff: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Worksite health promotion programs may be helpful to modify lifestyles, particularly for staff working in stressful environments (e.g. hospitals). Purpose: The present study aimed to assess the effects of a theory-based health education intervention to promote healthy lifestyles among hospital administrative staff. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in which 70 administrative staff were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in an educational program based on theory of planned behavior (TPB) principles over a 4-week period. At baseline and 1 and 3 months after the intervention, participant lifestyle was assessed. Results: All lifestyle dimensions along with TPB constructs showed significant improvements from baseline to first or second follow-up in the intervention group. Adjustment of baseline differences in study variables showed significant improvements in both TPB constructs and lifestyle dimensions (4.1 < F < 26.1, p < .05) except for nutrition and spiritual growth at first follow-up and for physical activity and stress management at second follow-up. Discussion: A TPB-based program may contribute to promoting a healthy lifestyle among hospital staff.