Aim To explore activities, interactions and behaviours during the first appointment in adult care for young people with cystic fibrosis.

Method Observational data were collected at 12 first appointments. Framework analysis was applied to written field notes.

Findings Interaction enablers and interaction barriers were identified in the data. Practitioners endeavoured to be holistic, addressing personal as well as physical factors. This involved broaching individuals’ interests, self-disclosure and humour. Various activities were accomplished. The role of parents in the continued management of cystic fibrosis was not raised at first appointments.

Discussion Practitioners require clear objectives for first appointments in adult care to ensure young people adapt to this new healthcare setting. Young people should be prepared for transfer so they can respond to and ask questions, and parents should be assisted to relinquish control of their child’s condition.

Conclusion A modest set of objectives for the first appointment should be set to enable young people to retain information, while introducing them to a new service.