N24 Prioritised adolescent healthcare transition readiness factors by Canadian inflammatory bowel disease nurses
N. Rohatinsky1, T. Risling1, M. Kumaran2, L.A. Hellsten3
1University of Saskatchewan, College of Nursing, Saskatoon, Canada, 2University of Saskatchewan, University Library, Saskatoon, Canada, 3University of Saskatchewan, College of Education, Saskatoon, Canada
Background
Canada has over 270,000 individuals living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Over 7000 children and adolescents have been diagnosed and these numbers are continuing to increase. Due to the chronic, life long nature of IBD, more adolescents are transitioning from paediatric to adult healthcare environments than ever before. There is great need to ensure that adolescents are properly supported through this transitional period to ensure that their health outcomes are maximised. IBD nurses are integral members of the transition team; however, their perspectives on priority transition readiness factors are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was for Canadian IBD nurses to prioritise healthcare transition readiness assessment factors.
Methods
An anonymous survey was created and distributed to IBD nurses across Canada. Nine transition topic categories with several transition statements within each category were identified based on a previous scoping review and expert opinion. Nurses were asked to rank the top three statements under each category.
Results
Fifty-six Canadian IBD nurses participated in the survey. The highest priority statement that was most frequently identified as the top selection under each transition topic category is listed below.
| Category | Highest Priority Statement |
| Knowing IBD | Know which symptoms might indicate their IBD is worsening |
| Living with IBD | Recognise IBD signs and symptoms that indicate they are becoming unwell |
| Medications | Take medications at the right time independently without prompting from others |
| Taking Charge | Comfortably take part in discussions about their health with providers without help |
| Healthcare Relationships | Feel comfortable clarifying information with doctors or nurses |
| Emotional and Mental Health | Seek support for mental health problems if they arise |
| Healthy Living | Identify foods that they cannot eat, make them feel uncomfortable and make them feel better |
| Transition | State any concerns they may have about the transition |
| Personal Relationships | Have a good social support system |
Conclusion
IBD nurses identified key transition readiness factors that will ultimately allow young adults to self-manage their IBD; promote successful transition into adult care; and allow for positive health outcomes.