An overview of the effects of sickle cell disease in adolescents
Intended for healthcare professionals
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An overview of the effects of sickle cell disease in adolescents

Luhanga Musumadi Adolescent transition clinical nurse specialist, Department of Clinical Haematology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London
Neil Westerdale Advanced nurse practitioner, Department of Clinical Haematology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London
Helen Appleby Paediatric clinical nurse specialist, Evelina Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London

Specific complications of sickle cell disease (SCD) may emerge during adolescence, and education of patients and families is vital during transition from paediatric to adult health care. Adolescents with SCD have to adjust to the constraints of living with a lifelong chronic condition, and compliance with self-care and medical treatments can be problematic. This article explores potential opportunities for intervention, and examines how the role of the adolescent clinical nurse specialist is pivotal in supporting patients and families during this transition.

Nursing Standard. 26, 26, 35-40. doi: 10.7748/ns2012.02.26.26.35.c8973

Correspondence

luhanga.musumadi@gstt.nhs.uk

Peer review

This article has been subject to double blind peer review

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