Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Continuous Manual Exchange Transfusion for Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: An Efficient Method to Avoid Iron Overload
05:23

Continuous Manual Exchange Transfusion for Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: An Efficient Method to Avoid Iron Overload

Published on: March 14, 2017

From cradle to commencement: transitioning pediatric sickle cell disease patients to adult providers

Donna M Doulton1

  • 1University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio,TX, USA. doulton@uthscsa.edu

Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing : Official Journal of the Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses
|November 10, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) now live longer, requiring a structured transition from pediatric to adult care. This study outlines a two-part program to ensure continuous care for young adults with SCD.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Transition Medicine
  • Chronic Disease Management

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) survival rates have improved, leading to a growing population of young adults with the condition.
  • Managing the transition of care from pediatric to adult healthcare systems is a significant challenge for patients with SCD.
  • Ensuring continuity of care is crucial for long-term health outcomes in adults with SCD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a structured, two-part transition program for adolescents and young adults with SCD.
  • To facilitate a seamless transfer of care from pediatric providers to adult healthcare teams.
  • To ensure a continuum of care for individuals with SCD as they mature.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive, two-part transition program was developed and implemented.
  • Patient and family education about the transition process begins at the initial newborn visit.
  • A "Preparation for Transition" binder is introduced at age 13 and reviewed regularly, with formal transition completed by age 18.

Main Results:

  • Twenty patients aged 18–27 years have been successfully transitioned to adult care providers.
  • The program emphasizes early preparation and ongoing engagement with patients and families.
  • The structured approach aims to mitigate potential gaps in care during the transition period.

Conclusions:

  • A proactive, multi-stage transition program is essential for young adults with SCD.
  • Early and consistent education empowers patients and families to navigate the transition process.
  • This model supports a sustained continuum of care, improving long-term management of SCD.

Related Concept Videos

Discharge Summary Forms01:31

Discharge Summary Forms

The discharge summary is crucial as it enables a smooth transition from a healthcare facility to a patient's home or another care setting. This critical document facilitates seamless continuity of care, ensuring patients receive the necessary support and attention.
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
Patient-centered Care01:13

Patient-centered Care

Patient-centered care involves delivering care beyond inpatient hospitalization. Reflective practice can enhance a patient-centered approach. Reflective practice is a process of reasoning that considers all aspects of the present situation, including practicalities, learning from personal practice, and consideration of patient needs. Patients appreciate care decisions made while considering their input. Involving the patient in their care provides the patient with a sense of contribution rather...
Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care01:28

Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...
Kidney Transplant III: Nursing Management01:16

Kidney Transplant III: Nursing Management

Postoperative Nursing Management for Kidney Transplant PatientsPostoperative nursing management care includes monitoring the surgical site, encouraging early movement, and promoting lung health through breathing exercises. Nurses also administer prescribed medications like H2-blockers, such as famotidine, or proton pump inhibitors, like omeprazole, to help prevent gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding. Fungal infections in the mouth and bladder can result from immunosuppressive and antibiotic...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion01:26

Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion

In pediatric medicine, understanding the renal function and drug elimination nuances is crucial for administering safe and effective treatments. Newborns, in particular, display markedly slower renal functions than adults, profoundly affecting how drugs are cleared from their bodies. This slower drug clearance requires clinicians to extend the dosing intervals for many medications to prevent drug accumulation and toxicity while ensuring therapeutic efficacy.One key area where these adjustments...
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care01:29

Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care

Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...