Transition into adult services can be sudden and fragmented for young people with complex health needs. Yet, if the transition is a planned, coordinated process, the benefits can be life-long. Literature suggests that the quality of transition is variable and recommends community nurses take an active role within the process. To increase knowledge and awareness, a transition workshop was developed using the Queen’s Nursing Institute’s ‘Transition of Care’ tool, and delivered to the community specialist practitioner students at the University of Central Lancashire. The aim of the workshop was to raise awareness among the professional community groups in order to identify the challenges faced by young people, thus bringing together practitioners to promote collaborative working and leadership within this sphere of practice. Feedback following the workshop provided evidence of improved interprofessional working and a shift in perception, with historic ideologies being challenged. This article explores how implementing techniques to increase community nurses’ knowledge and awareness of transition improves the transition experience for the young person.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the term given to progressive airflow obstructive conditions, namely emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The disease is not reversible, but its progression can be slowed with the correct treatment and management. Within our organisation, we realised that if district nursing teams worked inter-professionally, exacerbations of COPD could be reduced simply by assessment of inhaler technique whilst making home visits. This article, a previous entry to the JCN Writing Awards, presents the a review of the literature undertaken prior to changing practice.
Annette Bades, BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing, District Nursing Sister, Lancashire Care NHS Trust
