Improving Adult Immunization Uptake: An Expanded Role for the Nurse Practitioner

Abstract

Clinical Problem

Adult immunization rates have declined primarily due to access barriers and vaccine hesitancy, leading to public health and health equity concerns. Nurse practitioners play a role in development of vaccination plans and must be equipped with knowledge and operational support.

Approaches

Approaches include outlining elements of a comprehensive vaccine and adult immunization knowledge base, and offering implementation strategies that nurse practitioners can use in any practice setting as they begin, build, or strengthen interventions.

Conclusions

Equipping the nurse practitioner with knowledge regarding vaccines and their administration as well as operational and implementation support enables patient access to and acceptance of vaccines.