Readiness for transition from pediatric to adult care for adolescents with chronic heart disease.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine transition readiness of adolescents with chronic heart disease to adult care.

METHODS: The sample of the study comprised 113 adolescents between the ages 12 and 18 years with chronic heart disease. Transition readiness was assessed by the Transition-Q self-administered tool.

RESULTS: The Transition-Q mean score was 63.0 (range = 31-92). The self-management skills of the adolescents increased significantly in direct proportion to their ages. Most of the adolescents had a lack of confidence about medication management and communicating with healthcare providers. No significant difference was detected between boys and girls in terms of total and individual items' scores.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Transition readiness should be assessed to understand transitional requirements of adolescents with chronic heart disease and to plan appropriate nursing interventions accordingly.