Physical Activity Promotion: A National Survey of Nurses Involved in Primary Diabetes Care in Bahrain

Background/Objectives: Physical activity is an important component of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) management, and nurses are well-positioned to promote it in routine care. However, little is known about its implementation by diabetes nurses working in primary healthcare in Bahrain. This study examined nurses’ perceptions, confidence, knowledge, awareness, guideline awareness and use, promotion practices, and perceived barriers to physical activity. Methods: A national cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted among primary healthcare nurses. All 52 eligible nurses were invited to participate, with 49 completing an online questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and exploratory statistics, and free-text responses using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Nurses strongly perceived physical activity promotion to be part of their professional role and reported high confidence in providing advice. However, 44.9% were aware of at least one physical activity guideline and 24.4% reported both awareness and routine use. Only 34.7% reported always assessing patients’ physical activity irrespective of presenting health needs. Nurses reported that the most commonly perceived barriers among people in Bahrain were lack of time (83.7%) and lack of motivation and support from family and friends (67.3%). Qualitative findings identified four themes: public awareness and health education; access to physical activity facilities and opportunities; motivation and behavioural support; and healthcare and community support. Conclusions: Diabetes nurses in Bahrain demonstrated a strong professional commitment to promoting physical activity, but this was not consistently reflected in systematic, guideline-informed practice. Greater awareness and implementation of existing guidance, practical approaches to physical activity assessment, clearer referral pathways, and coordinated healthcare and community support may strengthen physical activity promotion.