Nurses’ perceived role in healthcare transition of adolescents with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Background Nurses’ role in the transition of adolescents living with intellectual disabilities (IDs) has always been neglected. The primary role of nurses is to promote health, provide nursing care, alleviate suffering and rehabilitate. Improving the quality of life for individuals with ID when they undergo the healthcare transition process from adolescence to adulthood was previously not considered a priority. Objectives To investigate the nurses’ perceived role in healthcare transition of adolescents with ID into adulthood. Method A qualitative descriptive design using semi-structured interviews with 18 nurse participants was used. The sample included 25 nurses working in care and rehabilitation centres and non-governmental organisations in Tshwane district, Gauteng province, South Africa. Results Three main themes that emerged from the analysis were support systems, advocacy and health promotion. Conclusion The findings of this study clearly show the need for a strong healthcare support system to facilitate a successful transition process of adolescents with ID. The study findings support the view that nurses can play a key role in assisting individuals with ID and their families in dealing with the challenges of healthcare transitioning into adulthood.

Transition for adolescents with learning disabilities and an immunodeficiency

“…Support services such as advocacy groups, mentoring and psychological support can increase confidence and help manage expectations for the future ( 10 , 11 , 21 , 23 , 24 ). Family counselling and advocacy groups in particular, can be beneficial for families of adolescents with comorbidities of mental illness ( 10 , 13 ) and can be used to empower the adolescent in their decision-making processes ( 11 ), the same could be suggested for patients with learning disabilities.…”