Discussion: Despite Increased Abilities Across Develo 623927

Discussion: Despite increased abilities across developmental realms, including the

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. Word limit 500 words. Please make sure to provide citations and references (in APA, 7th ed. format) for your work.

Paper For Above instruction

The transition from adolescence to young adulthood is a critical developmental period characterized by significant biological, psychological, and social changes. While this stage is marked by increased cognitive and emotional maturity, it also presents heightened vulnerabilities, including elevated risks of mortality, substance abuse, mental health disorders, and risky health behaviors. Advanced practice nurses (APRNs) are uniquely positioned to mitigate these risks through comprehensive preventive screening and targeted interventions that promote healthier outcomes during this vulnerable phase.

One vital role of APRNs in young adult healthcare is conducting routine screening for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Early identification allows for prompt intervention, which is essential given the rising prevalence of mental health issues in this population (Garlow et al., 2008). Utilizing validated screening tools like the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) can facilitate early detection and connect young adults to appropriate mental health resources, reducing the likelihood of escalation to severe psychiatric crises (Kessler et al., 2005).

Preventive screening should also address substance use, which remains a significant health concern among young adults. Screening tools such as the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) enable APRNs to identify risky behaviors early. Brief interventions, including motivational interviewing techniques, can effectively reduce substance misuse and promote healthier choices (SAMHSA, 2015). These strategies not only decrease the immediate health risks but also contribute to long-term behavioral change.

Further, APRNs play a crucial role in reproductive health screening, including counseling on contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and sexual health education. Regular screening for STIs, along with prompt treatment and education, can reduce the incidence of infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which peak during young adulthood (CDC, 2021). Furthermore, promoting safe sex practices and providing access to barrier methods empower young adults to make informed decisions, decreasing unplanned pregnancies and STI transmission.

Vaccination is another critical preventive measure. APRNs should ensure that young adults are up-to-date on vaccines such as HPV, hepatitis B, and influenza. Immunizations have been proven to reduce disease burden and associated healthcare costs (Murphy et al., 2020). This preventive approach not only protects individual health but also contributes to community herd immunity.

Finally, lifestyle counseling on nutrition, physical activity, and sleep hygiene is vital. Given the risk of chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, APRNs should promote healthy behaviors early on. Incorporating motivational interviewing and personalized care plans enhances engagement and adherence to health recommendations (Rollnick et al., 2008).

In summary, advanced practice nurses are integral to promoting the health of young adults through comprehensive preventive screening and targeted interventions. By addressing mental health, substance use, reproductive health, immunizations, and lifestyle factors, APRNs can significantly reduce health risks and support healthy development into adulthood.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Youth and Young Adult Health. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/tec.htm
• Garlow, S. J., Rosenberg, J., Moore, J., Haas, A. P., Koester, S., & et al. (2008). Depression, desperation, and suicidal ideation in undergraduate students: Results from the College Student Health Survey. Depression and Anxiety, 25(4), 288–294.
• Kessler, R. C., Berglund, P., Demler, O., et al. (2005). Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(6), 593–602.
• Murphy, J. R., Tannous, M., & et al. (2020). Vaccine coverage among young adults: Implications for preventive strategies. Journal of Adolescent Health, 66(2), 208–213.
• Rollnick, S., Miller, W. R., & Butler, C. C. (2008). Motivational interviewing in health care: Helping patients change behavior. The Guilford Press.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2015). Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). https://www.samhsa.gov/sbirt