Clin Nephrol. 2025 Apr 22. doi: 10.5414/CN111566. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: There is limited data evaluating the practices of nephrologists who prepare dialysis-dependent adolescents and young adults (AYA) for healthcare transition (HCT) from pediatric- to adult-focused healthcare. The aims of this manuscript are 1) critically evaluate the current evidence and experiences surrounding HCT from pediatric- to adult-focused dialysis units, 2) make recommendations that can be implemented for this process.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, COCHRANE, and clinicaltrials.gov to identify studies that pertain to the HCT of AYA patients from pediatric- to adult-focused dialysis care.
RESULTS: A total of 14 studies were included and were grouped into subcategories to facilitate synthesis: HCT process, preparedness of patient and family, preparedness of adult-focused nephrology providers, barriers to HCT, and quality of life. These included studies highlight the importance of creating an HCT process with a formal policy. They focus upon the importance of patient and family preparedness and measuring HCT readiness using standardized scales. They underline the importance of identifying adult-focused nephrology “HCT champions” to care for AYA requiring dialysis. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of measuring quality of life in AYA patients to ensure optimal patient-centered HCT.
CONCLUSION: There is limited data on HCT for AYA with end-stage kidney disease. Upon review and analysis of current literature, we emphasize the importance of key fundamental pieces: the development of a transition policy, creating formal “HCT processes” including an assessment of readiness, and transferring care to adult-focused services.”
PMID:40260595 | DOI:10.5414/CN111566
