Being healthy is a choice, and most people need the right support and knowledge to become healthy. Nurses are the pillar of guidance that leads people towards a healthy life. If you are passionate about making your patients healthy and embracing healthy habits, remember that the journey begins in childhood.
When children learn to make health a priority, the nation becomes healthier. As a nurse, you can play a role in helping children become more conscious of their health and well-being. Of course, you need the right skills and knowledge for this. If you are already a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, you can become an advanced practice nurse by enrolling in a post-masters DNP program at the University of Indianapolis. This online program will equip you with the right skills, knowledge, and expertise to ensure safe, prompt, and effective healthcare delivery to patients of all ages. Armed with the right qualifications, you will be poised to transform the lives of children and adults so that they adopt healthy habits and practices.
Early childhood
Early childhood is a critical stage of development as it lays the foundation for a child’s future growth. You not only provide preventive care and address health concerns but also screen children for developmental delays. You are also responsible for educating parents on proper nutrition, hygiene, and safety practices, which are crucial for a child’s overall health and well-being.
Nurses encourage proper early childhood development by promoting well-child visits. These regular check-ups allow nurses to monitor a child’s growth and development, identify health concerns, and provide preventative care. They also work with parents to develop a plan to track their child’s developmental milestones.
Immunizations are a vital aspect of early childhood development, and nurses are at the forefront of ensuring that children receive their necessary vaccinations. Vaccines protect children from deadly diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and polio. Nurses ensure that children are up-to-date on their immunizations and provide education on the importance of vaccination.
School-aged children
As children enter school, nurses provide preventative care, such as hearing and vision screenings, and manage chronic conditions, like asthma or diabetes. They educate children on proper nutrition, hygiene, and safety practices. As these messages are constantly reinforced by nurses, children become more aware of their health, safety, and well-being.
They provide support for children who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. They also work with teachers and parents to develop strategies to promote positive behavior and manage challenging behaviors.
Adolescence and young adulthood
Nurses help adolescents navigate the new challenges of puberty, such as menstruation and sexual health concerns.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are leading causes of illness among adolescents. As a nurse, you identify signs of mental health concerns, help teenagers and young adults manage their symptoms, connect families with community resources, and provide counseling and therapy referrals.
By addressing health concerns and promoting healthy development at different stages of life, nurses have a lasting impact on a child’s overall health and well-being, and the results even in adulthood.
