Discussion:
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.
Instructions:
The word limit is 500 words. Please provide citations and references (in APA, 7th ed. format) for your work.
**Improving Young Adult Health Through Preventive Screening and Intervention: The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses**
Young adulthood, spanning roughly from ages 18 to 24, is a critical period marked by increased autonomy, risk-taking behavior, and vulnerability to health issues. Despite developmental advances, young adults face significant health challenges, including elevated rates of mortality from motor vehicle accidents and violence, substance abuse, mental health issues, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Advanced practice nurses (APNs) play a vital role in addressing these challenges through preventive screening and targeted interventions.
**1. Comprehensive Preventive Screenings**
APNs can implement preventive screenings to identify health risks early. Routine screenings should include:
– **Mental Health Assessments:** Given the peak incidence of mental health disorders in young adulthood, APNs should screen for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Tools like the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) are effective in screening for these conditions (Kroenke et al., 2001; Spitzer et al., 2006).
– **Sexual and Reproductive Health:** APNs should offer screenings for STIs, pregnancy, and provide education on contraception and safe sex practices. Regular screenings and discussions can help prevent unplanned pregnancies and the spread of STIs (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021).
– **Substance Use:** Screening for substance abuse using tools like the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) or the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) helps in early identification and intervention (Bohn et al., 1995; Saunders et al., 1993).
**2. Health Education and Counseling**
Education and counseling are crucial in guiding young adults toward healthier behaviors. APNs can:
– **Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices:** Counsel on the importance of diet, exercise, and avoiding risky behaviors. Tailored interventions that address specific risk factors, such as promoting safe driving practices and the dangers of substance abuse, are essential (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2020).
– **Enhance Mental Health Awareness:** Provide resources and strategies for managing stress, developing coping mechanisms, and seeking professional help when needed. Engaging young adults in conversations about mental health can reduce stigma and encourage treatment (National Alliance on Mental Illness [NAMI], 2023).
– **Facilitate Access to Services:** Assist in navigating healthcare systems to ensure access to necessary services, including mental health support and substance abuse treatment. APNs can act as advocates, connecting young adults with resources and support systems (American Nurses Association [ANA], 2021).
**3. Interventions and Referrals**
APNs should be prepared to implement and coordinate interventions:
– **Behavioral Interventions:** Develop personalized care plans that address identified risks, including behavior modification strategies for substance abuse or unsafe sexual practices. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing are effective techniques (Miller & Rollnick, 2013).
– **Emergency Care and Referrals:** In cases of acute issues, such as severe mental health crises or substance overdose, APNs should provide immediate care and make appropriate referrals to specialized services or emergency care facilities (American Psychiatric Nurses Association [APNA], 2019).
**Conclusion**
Advanced practice nurses play a pivotal role in improving young adult health through comprehensive preventive screenings, health education, counseling, and targeted interventions. By addressing the specific needs and risk factors prevalent in this age group, APNs can help mitigate the high rates of mortality and morbidity observed during young adulthood. Through these efforts, APNs contribute significantly to enhancing the overall health and well-being of young adults.
**References**
American Nurses Association. (2021). *Nursing: Scope and standards of practice* (4th ed.). ANA.
American Psychiatric Nurses Association. (2019). *Psychiatric mental health nursing: Scope and standards of practice* (3rd ed.). APNA.
Bohn, M. J., Babor, T. F., & Kranzler, H. R. (1995). The alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT): Validation of a screening instrument for use in medical settings. *Journal of Studies on Alcohol, 56*(4), 423-432. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsa.1995.56.423
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). *STDs and sexual health*. https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm
Kroenke, K., Spitzer, R. L., & Williams, J. B. W. (2001). The PHQ-9: Validity of a brief depression severity measure. *Journal of General Internal Medicine, 16*(9), 606-613. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.2001.016009606.x
Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). *Motivational interviewing: Helping people change* (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2023). *Mental health conditions*. https://www.nami.org/learn-more/mental-health-conditions
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). *Commonly used drugs charts*. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/media-guide/commonly-used-drugs-charts
Saunders, J. B., Aasland, O. G., Babor, T. F., de la Fuente, J. R., & Grant, M. (1993). Development of the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT): WHO collaborative project on early detection of persons with harmful alcohol consumption–II. *Addiction, 88*(6), 791-804. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.1993.tb02093.x
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