Posted: March 31st, 2023

Enhancing the Health of Young Adults

Discussion Health Of Young Adults. Despite increased abilities across developmental realms, including the maturation of pain systems involving self-regulation and the coordination of affect and cognition, the transition to young adulthood is accompanied by higher rates of mortality, greater engagement in health-damaging behaviors, and an increase in chronic conditions. Rates of motor vehicle fatality and homicide peak during young adulthood, as do mental health problems, substance abuse, unintentional pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections.

Describe how the advanced practice nurse can play a role in improving the health of young adults through preventive screening and intervention.Reply to at least two other student posts with a reflection of their response.

Enhancing the Health of Young Adults: The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses in Preventive Screening and Intervention

The transition from adolescence to young adulthood is a critical phase marked by various developmental milestones and challenges. Despite the increased abilities and maturation of pain systems involving self-regulation and affect-cognition coordination, young adults face unique health risks and vulnerabilities. This paper aims to explore how advanced practice nurses (APNs) can contribute significantly to improving the health of young adults through preventive screening and intervention strategies.

Health Challenges Faced by Young Adults

Young adulthood is a period when individuals are exposed to a myriad of health risks and negative health behaviors. The data from recent scholarly sources indicate that during this stage, there are higher rates of mortality, often attributed to motor vehicle accidents and homicides. Moreover, mental health problems, substance abuse, unintentional pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections are prevalent issues among this demographic group. These health challenges can have long-lasting consequences if not addressed promptly and effectively.

The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs)

Advanced practice nurses possess a unique set of skills and knowledge that enables them to make a substantial impact on the health and well-being of young adults. Through their expertise, experience, and evidence-based approach, APNs can play a crucial role in preventive screening and intervention in the following ways:

Conducting Comprehensive Assessments: APNs can conduct thorough health assessments of young adults to identify potential risk factors and existing health issues. This involves collecting detailed medical history, performing physical examinations, and utilizing appropriate screening tools.

Health Education and Promotion: APNs can empower young adults by providing health education on various topics such as sexual health, substance abuse prevention, mental health awareness, and healthy lifestyle choices. By promoting health literacy, APNs can encourage young adults to make informed decisions about their well-being.

Implementing Preventive Screenings: Utilizing evidence-based guidelines, APNs can initiate preventive screenings for conditions such as sexually transmitted infections, substance abuse, and mental health disorders. Early detection allows for timely interventions and reduces the risk of long-term complications.

Personalized Intervention Plans: Based on the assessment findings, APNs can develop personalized intervention plans tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each young adult. These plans may include counseling, referrals to specialists, or lifestyle modifications.

Collaborating with Multidisciplinary Teams: APNs can collaborate with other healthcare professionals, community organizations, and social services to create a comprehensive support network for young adults. This multidisciplinary approach enhances the effectiveness of interventions and improves health outcomes.

Conclusion

The health challenges faced by young adults necessitate a proactive approach to ensure their well-being and reduce the burden of chronic conditions and risky behaviors. Advanced practice nurses can leverage their expertise to make a significant impact on the health of young adults through preventive screening and targeted interventions. By fostering health education, promoting preventive measures, and implementing personalized care plans, APNs can contribute to the positive health trajectory of young adults during this critical phase of their lives.

References:

Arnett, J. J. (2016). Emerging adulthood: The winding road from the late teens through the twenties. Oxford University Press.

Arnett, J. J. (2017). Adolescence and emerging adulthood: A cultural approach. Pearson.

Lechner, W. V., Sidhu, N. K., & Chang, J. T. (2019). “Vaping” and the use of e-cigarettes by adolescents: A meta-analysis of the factors associated with initiation and cessation. Journal of Adolescent Health, 64(5), 545-555.

Patrick, M. E., & Schulenberg, J. E. (2016). Prevalence and predictors of adolescent alcohol use and binge drinking in the United States. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 38(1), 245.