Final answer:
The first nursing priority when discussing sexual health with an 18-year-old seeking birth control pills is to assess the teen's knowledge of sexuality and reproduction. This step is crucial for providing personalized education about sexual health, contraceptive methods, and the risks of pregnancy and STIs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing sexual health with an 18-year-old high school senior requesting birth control pills, the first nursing priority would be to assess the teen's knowledge of sexuality and reproduction. This approach ensures that the health care professional can provide personalized education and guidance, addressing any misconceptions and providing correct information about sexual health, pregnancy prevention, and the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
By assessing her knowledge, the health care professional can tailor the conversation to the teen's level of understanding, discuss the importance of practicing healthful sexual behaviors, inform her about the risks of pregnancy and STIs, and provide detailed information on various contraceptive methods, their efficacy, and how they can help in family planning and advancing reproductive health. This educational approach can empower the teen to make informed decisions, potentially reducing teenage pregnancy rates, much like countries with comprehensive sex education programs.