Part 1: Despite Increased Abilities Across Developmental Rea ✓ Solved

Part 1: Despite increased abilities across developmental realms

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

Paper For Above Instructions

The transition to young adulthood is a critical period characterized by various biological, psychological, and societal changes. While young adults exhibit enhanced cognitive and emotional regulation abilities, they simultaneously face a plethora of health challenges. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), young adults (ages 18-29) experience heightened incidences of risk-related behaviors, mental health issues, and significant mortality rates due to accidents and violence (CDC, 2022). Advanced practice nurses (APNs) play a pivotal role in mitigating these concerns through preventive screening and intervention strategies tailored to this demographic.

Preventive Health Screening

Preventive health screenings are essential in identifying risk factors early and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices. APNs can implement routine health screenings that assess vital statistics such as BMI, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Additionally, screenings for mental health disorders, substance use, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are imperative because they provide insight into the overall health status of young adults (National Institute of Mental Health, 2021). For instance, depression and anxiety are prevalent issues in this age group, with studies indicating that nearly one in five young adults experience a mental health disorder (NIMH, 2021).

Education and Counseling

In conjunction with screenings, APNs should offer educational resources aimed at fostering informed health decisions. Educational interventions can help young adults understand the risks associated with substance abuse, unintended pregnancies, and STIs. For instance, the implementation of comprehensive sexual health education in clinical settings can empower individuals to make safer choices regarding their sexual health (FPA, 2021). Moreover, counseling services that address mental health, relationship issues, and coping strategies play a fundamental role in promoting overall well-being.

Community Engagement and Resources

APNs can also connect young adults with community-based resources that foster a supportive network. By developing partnerships with local organizations, APNs can facilitate access to mental health services, substance abuse programs, and wellness initiatives (Sparrow, 2020). These community resources supplement the preventive measures taken within clinical settings and can effectively enhance the health outcomes of young adults. Engaging in community outreach programs can also help reduce stigma surrounding mental health and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.

Technology and Telehealth

The advancement of technology presents a unique opportunity for APNs to enhance their practice through telehealth services. Given that young adults are typically adept with technology, the incorporation of telehealth can ease access to health care services, especially for mental health support (Hollander & Carr, 2020). Telehealth platforms allow for flexible appointment scheduling, reducing barriers such as transportation and wait times, thereby increasing engagement in preventive care.

Conclusion

In summary, the role of advanced practice nurses in improving the health of young adults is multifaceted, involving preventive screenings, education, community engagement, and leveraging technology. By addressing the unique health challenges faced by this population, APNs can significantly contribute to decreasing morbidity and mortality rates among young adults. Continued research and adaptive strategies will further empower APNs in effectively managing the health of this critical demographic.

References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Young adult health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/young-adult-health.htm
  • FPA. (2021). Sexual health education. Retrieved from https://www.fpa.org.uk
  • Hollander, J. E., & Carr, B. G. (2020). Virtually perfect? Telemedicine for Covid-19. The New England Journal of Medicine, 382(18), 1679-1681.
  • National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Young adults. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/young-adults.shtml
  • Sparrow, D. (2020). Engaging young adults in health promotion. Public Health, 124(9), 1042-1048.
  • Patel, V., et al. (2018). The impact of social support on young adults’ mental health. Journal of Affective Disorders, 241, 172-177.
  • Hankin, B. L., et al. (2017). The role of stress exposure in the association between parenting and risk for depression in young adults. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 126(5), 617-629.
  • Arnett, J. J. (2015). Emerging adulthood: A theory of development from the late teens through the twenties. American Psychologist, 55(5), 469-480.
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Behavioral health trends in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/
  • World Health Organization. (2020). Health for the world's adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/health-for-the-worlds-adolescents

Related Assignments