Process of Transition for Congenital Heart Patients: Preventing Loss to Follow-up.

PURPOSE: The aim of this article is to provide an overview of our nurse-led transition clinic provided to congenital heart disease patients moving from pediatric into adult care setting.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICE: Nurse-led transition clinic was analyzed at various stages of young adult care from an early stage of 12 to 14 years to entering adult setting at 16 years or older.

METHODS: Overview of current transition service for young adults being transferred from pediatric into adult services highlights the integral role of clinical nurse specialist as a coordinator of care.

RESULTS: The result of the service overview indicates that nurse-led transition service enables patients to build on their knowledge. This is achieved by providing them time and the opportunities to develop an understanding of their condition and the attitudes required to engage with the adult care setting as indicated in the psychology questionnaire from transition day.

CONCLUSION: A nurse-led transition clinic enhances long-term care of patients by supporting the young adults and their family/carer through the transition and transfer of the care to promote the young adult's understanding of their condition and to prevent any lost to follow-up.