Educational intervention improves transition readiness for adolescents with asthma
Providing adolescents diagnosed with asthma with a specialized education program during their transition from pediatric to adult care significantly improves their readiness for this transition and enhances their self-efficacy in managing their condition, according to a study.
In a prospective randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of an education program tailored to this transition period, 52 adolescents aged between 14 and 18 years diagnosed with asthma were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group received a comprehensive program consisting of four face-to-face sessions and 6 online education sessions, while the control group received standard care.
Key outcomes were measured using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ), the Self-Efficacy Scale for Children and Adolescents with Asthma, and the Mind the Gap Scale. Assessments were conducted at baseline (Week 0) and immediately after the intervention (Week 12).
Initial evaluations showed no significant differences between the groups in terms of primary or secondary outcomes. However, after the intervention, significant improvements were observed in the intervention group. Their TRAQ scores were notably higher, indicating increased readiness for transition to adult care. Additionally, their self-efficacy scores were significantly elevated, while their Mind the Gap Scale scores were significantly lower, suggesting a reduced gap in knowledge and skills related to their condition.
Reference
Dinç F, Yıldız D, Ercan N. The effectiveness of an education program based on healthcare transition in adolescents with asthma: A randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2024;35(3):e14101. doi: 10.1111/pai.14101. PMID: 38456636.
