American Nurses Association Position Statement on adult immunization

Vaccine-preventable diseases contribute to significant morbidity and mortality among adults. In spite of continued efforts to improve vaccine efficacy and delivery against influenza, pneumococcal disease, tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis B, vaccine usage remains low for numerous reasons (Holt, 1996). Recommendation by a health care provider is one factor that significantly affects whether a person will immunized (Centers for Disease Control, 1988). As front-line providers within the health care system nurses can substantially reverse present trends through actively creating and participating in comprehensive vaccine delivery strategies which target high-risk, minority and well-adult populations.