Factors Influencing Transition Readiness in Adolescents with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Qualitative Study

This study aimed to identify the factors influencing transition readiness among adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus, thereby providing a foundation for the development of targeted intervention programs.

Guided by the Social-Ecological Model of Adolescent and Young Adult Readiness for Transition, a descriptive qualitative study was conducted from September 2024 to October 2025. Using purposive sampling, we recruited 17 adolescent patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, their respective caregivers, and 12 healthcare providers from a tertiary hospital in Guangdong Province, China. Semi-structured interviews were performed, and the data were analyzed using directed content analysis.

Six themes and sixteen subthemes were identified: (1) knowledge, encompassing both the active acquisition of disease-related information and a general lack of transition awareness; (2) skills/efficacy, characterized by poor medication adherence and insufficient competence in navigating healthcare systems; (3) beliefs/expectations, reflecting recognition of the importance of transition preparation; (4) goals, primarily defined by the absence of clear transition objectives; (5) relationships, incorporating barriers such as communication challenges between patients and healthcare providers or caregivers, a lack of coordination between pediatric and adult care departments, as well as facilitators like support from healthcare providers, emotional support from caregivers, and peer encouragement; (6) psychosocial functioning, manifested as emotional distress, caregiver over-involvement, substantial family financial burdens, alongside experiences of social stigma and discrimination.

This study highlights that transition readiness in adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus is influenced by multiple interacting factors. Healthcare providers should implement tailored interventions to improve treatment adherence and self-care during the transition process.