Educating children and families about growth hormone deficiency and its management: part 1

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) management is a long-term process, often spanning over 15 years.
• The paediatric endocrine team builds extended relationships with families from early childhood.
• Children and young people with GHD have evolving information needs as they mature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the essential role of paediatric endocrine nurse specialists in educating families about GHD.
• To emphasize the importance of ongoing, developmentally appropriate education for children and young people with GHD.
• To underscore the need for educational planning that considers the individual needs and life context of patients.

Main Methods:

• This article is part one of a two-part series focusing on the educational aspects of GHD management.
• It emphasizes building positive, long-term partnerships with families.
• The approach integrates developmental needs into educational strategies.

Main Results:

• Positive working relationships are key to effective educational planning.
• Education must be an ongoing process, not a single event.
• Addressing developmental needs ensures information relevance for children and young people.

Conclusions:

• Paediatric endocrine nurse specialists are crucial in providing sustained, tailored education for GHD.
• Continuous, adaptive educational support is essential for long-term GHD management.
• Integrating patient developmental stages and life contexts enhances educational outcomes.