Transition to Adulthood for Young People with Medical Complexity: An Integrative Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Adolescent Medicine
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Young people with medical complexity experience unique challenges during the transition to adulthood.
• Existing literature lacks a comprehensive understanding of the nursing implications for this population's developmental trajectory.
• Meleis' Transition Theory and Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Theory provide frameworks for analyzing this complex process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the empirical literature on the transition to adulthood for young people with medical complexity.
• To identify how this literature can inform nursing and advanced practice nursing.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals and future research.

Main Methods:

• An integrative literature review was conducted.
• The review synthesized findings from 11 studies.
• Meleis' Transition Theory and Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Theory guided the analysis.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: 'it's like falling off a cliff,' 'the paradox of independence,' and 'it takes a village.'
• Findings highlight a critical need for enhanced focus on the transition and transfer process for this population.
• The review identified gaps in understanding health determinants and psychosocial concerns.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric nurses and advanced practice nurses require enhanced strategies for advocacy, capacity-building, education, and program development.
• Future research should prioritize determinants of health, psychosocial aspects, and program evaluation for improved transition outcomes.
• A coordinated, supportive approach is essential for navigating the complexities of adulthood for medically complex youth.