Washington County Hospital continues with their staff’s continuing education series called Nursing Grand Rounds.  This program brings educational opportunities to the staff on current topics affecting their patients and community.  Last week, Registered Nurse, Laura Schmersahl, spoke to a large group of hospital staff members concerning youth alcohol usage in Washington County.  Alcohol use in the underage population of Washington County is growing.  The impact that alcohol usage has on the physical and mental well-being of the youth was presented.  In addition, alcohol use will increase risky behaviors that may lead to alcohol addiction, unsafe sexual behavior, violence, D.U.I., illegal drug use, alcohol poisoning, and suicidal behavior and these are of the major concern to parents and to the community.  The 2012 Illinois Youth Survey that was shared, reported that 83 percent of 12^th graders in Washington County admit to usage of alcohol.  It is evident that this problem has become a significant threat to the health and well-being of the community.  Many of the youth reported that adults provided them with the alcohol and felt that it was safe to let the youth drink at home.  Adults must learn ways to discourage youth alcohol usage and improve the health and well-being of this community.  For more information, contact Communities that Care Coalition through the Hoyleton Youth and Family Services about underage alcohol use in Washington County at 618-493-7382, extension 1341 or at communitiesthatcarecoalition@gmail.com.