Unintentional injuries in the young adult male.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To review the primary causes of unintentional deaths in young adult males and suggest strategies for educating young men about reducing risks for accidental death. DATA SOURCES: Selected scientific literature and Internet sources. CONCLUSIONS: Unintentional deaths are the fifth leading cause of death in all age groups, after heart disease, cancer, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Accidental death is the leading cause of death in males 1 to 44 years of age. Motor vehicle crashes, drowning, gunshot wounds, and occupational fatalities are among the leading injuries that contribute to the unanticipated death of the young adult male. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The ability to make sound decisions is a developmental process that is not achieved until later in adolescence or early adulthood. Nurse practitioners must assess the adolescent developmentally to provide appropriate guidance and assistance with behavior change.