SPN Position Statement: Transition of Pediatric Patients Into Adult Care

Abstract

SPN leadership has been active in organizing various task forces composed of members with recognized expertise and interest to work together and produce quality documents that provide guidance to the practice of pediatric nursing. The most recently published position paper follows this introduction and was produced by a team chaired by Cecily L. Betz PhD, RN, FAAN. These activities demonstrate fulfillment of SPN's Mission, Vision and Core Values, which are: Mission The mission of the Society of Pediatric Nurses is to advance the specialty of pediatric nursing through excellence in education, research and practice. Vision To be the premier resource for nurses caring for children and their families. Core Values Commitment Accountability to members and to decision making that contributes to the profession of pediatric nursing; dedication to lifelong learning, generation of new knowledge and scholarship, innovation, and advocacy for exceptional pediatric nursing care of children and families. Integrity Respectful, ethical, transparent, and fiscally responsible. Consistent expectations of collaboration and alignment of intellectual, professional, and organizational values. Leadership Visionary, leading with one voice, seeking diversity of thought, inspiring and advancing the leader qualities and strengths of the membership. Excellence Development and dissemination of evidence based standards and research based knowledge that transcends into exceptional quality outcomes for the nursing care of children and families and the promotion of the specialty of pediatric nursing.

Healthcare transition for adolescents and young adults with long‐term conditions: Qualitative study of patients, parents and healthcare professionals’ experiences

“…These findings indicate the importance of transition programmes for AYAs with long‐term conditions so that the transition from paediatric to adult health services offers continuity of care and promotes optimal clinical outcomes. Internationally, many organisations have published key standards to structure and improve the quality of healthcare transition for AYAs (Betz, ; Care Quality Commission, ; National Institute for Health & Care Excellence, 2). Similarly in Ireland, we have developed national standards that identify key indicators for best practice in transitional care for all conditions (National Clinical Programme for Paediatrics & Neonates, ).…”

“…This study was informed by Meleis () seminal theory on transition, which recognises that transition in health care involves multiple concurrent transitions for AYAs. The US Society of Pediatric Nurses refers to: “comprehensive services based upon an interdisciplinary framework of care that addresses the biopsychosocial needs of early adolescents (11–15 years of age), late adolescents (16–18 years of age), and emerging adults (18–25 years of age)” (Betz, , p. 161). Successful transition requires a person‐centred, developmental, psychosocial, flexible, multidisciplinary, coordinated approach (Mazur, Dembinski, Schrier, Hadjipanayis, & Michaud, ; National Institute for Health & Care Excellence, 2).…”

Graduation Day: Healthcare Transition From Pediatric to Adult

“…A position statement by the Society of Pediatric Nurses described 3 separate components of care related to HCT: period of extended preparation, transfer of care period, and period of post‐HCT/transfer of care . This position statement discusses the need for adequate preparation before transfer of care, including autonomy, independence, self‐determination, and self‐advocacy being integrated into the principles of care.…”

“…This position statement discusses the need for adequate preparation before transfer of care, including autonomy, independence, self‐determination, and self‐advocacy being integrated into the principles of care. Preparation should be initiated well before the intensive period (beginning at age 12 years), preferably in early adolescence; involve the patient, family, and team; focus on interests, needs, and preferences; and have measurable outcomes and benchmarks of achievement . The position statement suggested use of a formalized process based upon an HCT framework.…”

“…Quality improvement, evaluation, and research exploring achievement of outcomes, such as independence, self‐management, adherence, quality of life, involvement in education, vocation and/or recreation, and social networks, are important to provide an indication of success and highlight areas for improvement. The society recommends that healthcare institutions, community‐based healthcare programs, and schools of nursing use the position statement to ensure education, training, resources, and effective staffing plans …”