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Preventive Care in 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.
Word limit 500 words. Support your answers with the literature and provide citations and references 3 or more in APA, 7th ed. format. plagiarism less than 20 %, No AI
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Preventive Care in Young Adults
The transition to young adulthood is a critical developmental period characterized by increased independence, decision-making responsibilities, and lifestyle changes. While physiological maturity is achieved, this stage often brings heightened risks such as motor vehicle accidents, substance misuse, mental health disorders, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (Park et al., 2020). Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), including Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs), play a pivotal role in mitigating these risks through targeted preventive screening and early interventions.
Preventive screening in young adults should be guided by evidence-based recommendations such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This includes mental health screenings for depression and anxiety, substance abuse assessments, blood pressure monitoring, STI testing, and evaluation of risky behaviors (O’Connor et al., 2016). APNs can use motivational interviewing techniques to engage patients in open discussions about lifestyle choices, fostering a nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel empowered to disclose sensitive information. Early detection through routine screening not only improves health outcomes but also reduces long-term healthcare costs.
Intervention strategies for young adults should address the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in this age group. APNs can implement injury prevention counseling, including seatbelt use, safe driving practices, and avoidance of impaired driving. For sexual health, education on contraception, STI prevention, and consent can be integrated into routine visits. Additionally, APNs should prioritize mental health by offering counseling services, referrals, and resources for stress management, especially given the rising rates of depression and suicide in this population (Twenge et al., 2019).
Beyond individual patient care, APNs can serve as advocates for community-based health promotion programs. This may include organizing health fairs, collaborating with local organizations to increase access to preventive services, and using telehealth platforms to