Community Health Education

Infection control is a particularly important notion to the health of the population. Guidelines and protocols are in place to contain and prevent infection transmission. Influenza is a major health concern that affects individuals health status during flu seasons. Center for Diseases Control and Prevention [CDC], (2021) indicates that between 70 to 85 % of seasonal flu-related death in the US occurred among the 65 years and older population, along with 50% to 70 % hospitalization cases. CDC recommends that people 6 months old and older get vaccinated against the influenza vaccine to protect themselves, with emphasis on the most vulnerable group. Individuals of 65 years and older constitute part of the most vulnerable group to develop serious flu complications (CDC,2021). Influenza infection can be prevented among older people with vaccination. Therefore, educational video program to increase awareness on the importance of Flu vaccine can increase vaccination rate among that population.
            Worasathit et al (2020) conducted a study in Thailand on health education program that employs educational video about Influenza vaccination. The content included topics such as influenza infection, seriousness, complications, mode of transmission, preventative measures, effectiveness and safety of vaccines, and possible side effects. The educational video has shown positive influences among older adults on knowledge and attitude, acceptance of the vaccine, and willingness to pay for the vaccine (Worasathit et al, 2015). The literature has indicated that educational video methods can be impactful (Salina et al,2012). Therefore, education video program may be effective to increase influenza vaccination rate. However older patients should not have to pay for the flu vaccine. Financial coverage should be provided whether insured or uninsured, legal, or illegal. Having the willingness to pay for flu vaccine does not equate that one will complete the process of receiving the vaccine. In addition, limited income households such as the underinsured, uninsured, and undocumented immigrants, may lack the financial means to support themselves and may not e able to afford the vaccine. Furthermore, brochures should be included as educational material in language understood by the individual(s) to reinforce learning. Research shows that brochures on influenza can encourage vaccination rate, and appropriate language incorporation enhances effectiveness and understanding of material (Armstrong et al.,1999; Warder al.,2018). 
  I currently work in a nursing home where most of the population is older or elderly. Many of them do not want to take the flu vaccine and are at considerable risk to contract the flu due to comorbidities like diabetes, strokes, limited mobility, chronic kidney diseases, dialysis, and cardiovascular disease. Educational video program can also be applied in the nursing home setting where I work to improve adherence to CDC recommendation on vaccination among patients and patients family members. Also, I would include brochures as educational material in language understood by the individual(s) to reinforce learning. Research shows that brochures on influenza can encourage vaccination rate, and appropriate language incorporation enhances effectiveness and understanding of material (Armstrong et al.,1999; Warder al.,2018).

Discussion #2

The Maternal Wraparound Program (M-WRAP) provides comprehensive care coordination, and recovery support services to pregnant and postpartum women with a substance use disorder. M-WRAP is available to women up to six months after the birth event to assist in alleviating barriers to healthcare services. The goal of the M-WRAP Program is to promote maternal health, improve birth outcomes, and reduce the risks and adverse consequences of prenatal substance exposure (St. Lawrence Health System, 2021). The services include breastfeeding education, childcare, continuing education, counseling services, employment, family member support, food, medication assisted recover, parenting classes, peer recovery support, personal safety, prenatal and primary care, shelter and transportation. In the ED, we see all patients in every stage in their life, including pregnant mothers who do substance abuse.  Perinatal substance use disorders, particularly those that involve opioids, have become a major public health issue in the United States (Ecker, 2019). As nurses, we must leave all judgement at the door and provide patients information that will be beneficial for them and their expecting child. I work where the population comes in are mostly drug users and this resource comes in handy.