Presenters: Brandon Thatcher ; Ann Peterson
Authors: Brandon Thatcher, Ann Peterson, Morgan Utley, Haokun Yang
Faculty Advisor: Brandon Thatcher
Institution: Brigham Young University
UCUR 2022 Abstract Objective: Nicotine exposure among America’s youth has risen dramatically over the past decade, primarily due to the proliferation of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). This proposal provides a timely analysis of the emerging issue of e-cigarette use among youth. In addition, we provide valuable patient education and referral resources nurses can provide care for and empower patients. Methods: A literature review was completed regarding adolescent e-cigarette use, prevention strategies, and interventions, highlighting the problematic significance of e-cigarette use in adolescents. Questions that guided this review sought to identify important considerations for nurses but also may be helpful to teachers, parents, and laypeople. Results: Healthcare providers, teachers, parents, and friends can intervene and help prevent and reduce youth e-cigarette use. Nurses can teach adolescents about the risks of e-cigarette use in a setting where receptivity may be exceptionally high. Teenagers who are advised to quit by their healthcare provider are more likely to do so. Practical strategies include: - Screening for e-cigarette use during all adolescent patient visits. - Providing information about the known risks. - Promoting initiation avoidance. - Providing resources to assist youth in quitting. Conclusions: E-cigarette use is dangerous, particularly for youth. Multiple evidence-based resources exist that provide education tools, client-centered strategies, and quit/prevention aids for adolescents who use e-cigarettes. This information equips attendees with knowledge about e-cigarette use among youth, the attendant risks, evidence-based interventions, and timely resources.