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Patient Education: Piercing: Does health education make a difference?
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Joyce Marlene Miller DNP, RN, WHNP-BC
Joyce J. Fitzpatrick PhD, RN, FAAN
$7.95
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The Nurse Practitioner: The American Journal of Primary Health Care
June 2010
Volume 35 Number 6
Pages 48 - 52
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PDF Version Available!
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ABSTRACT
Despite potential long-term health risks, body piercing remains popular among people of all ages, occupations, and social classes. In the 18- to 23-year-old age range, current estimates of piercing prevalence range from 30% to 50%.1Several reasons for piercing have been identified, including: identifying with a particular group of people; identifying with a specific age group or social ranking; belief in magical powers; desire to appear ferocious and attractive; and sexual stimulation.2 Body piercing is a way for people to identify themselves uniquely or as part of a group, and it attests to the perceived importance of outward appearance and inner desires.3Reported risk factors associated with body piercing have also increased. Common and uncommon concerns include local infection, bleeding, metal hypersensitivity, increased risk of infective endocarditis, Ludwig angina, cerebellar brain abscess, critical upper-airway compromise, mucogingival deformities, periodontal destruction, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.4,5 However, body piercers may not always provide information on risks associated with piercing procedures. Many healthcare professionals have not kept abreast of complications associated with body piercings.Despite a plethora of information on the subject, evidence-based scientific information on decisions regarding body piercing has been limited. There are few documented client education programs related to body piercing. To balance thrill-seeking behavior and peer pressure, and provide optimal care for clients, healthcare providers should provide fact-based education about body piercing to all clients. With knowledge of the associated risks, clients can make the best decisions about piercings.The purpose of our study was to determine whether young adult women between the ages of 18 and 26 who received a risk reduction, health promotion program would have greater confidence in conflict decision-making concerning body piercing.Based on an integrative research
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