The experiences of adolescent solid organ transplantation recipients, parents, and healthcare professionals in healthcare transition: A qualitative systematic review.

PROBLEM

The transition from paediatric-centred to adult healthcare services in adolescent solid organ transplantation recipients is a period of increased risk and vulnerability, the issues related to healthcare transition have become key concerns to the healthcare community.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Qualitative studies of any design and qualitative components of mixed method studies that explored the experiences of healthcare transition among adolescent solid organ transplant recipients, parents, and healthcare professionals were included.

SAMPLE

Nine articles were finalised and included in the review.

METHODS

A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted. Databases searched were Scopus, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. Studies published between the inception of respective database and December 2022 inclusive were considered. A three-step inductive thematic synthesis method outlined by Thomas and Harden was used to form descriptive themes and the 10-item Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was utilised to appraise the quality of included articles.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty studies were screened, and 9 studies published between 2013 and 2022 were included. Five analytical themes were generated: 'the struggle of being an adolescent with a transplant'; 'perceptions of transition'; 'the role of parents'; 'lack of transition readiness' and 'the need for better support'.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescent solid organ transplant recipients, parents, and healthcare professionals faced multiple challenges in the healthcare transition.

IMPLICATIONS

Future interventions and health policies should provide targeted intervention strategies that address the barriers present in the healthcare transition to facilitate the optimization of the youth healthcare transition.