Parental experiences transitioning neurological impaired young adults to adult services

Background: Neonatal and paediatric care has been advancing. However, most young adults will need to transition from paediatric to adult healthcare services, which is more challenging and complex, especially for young adults with severe neurological impairment (SNI) due to significant healthcare needs. This study aimed to explore the experiences of parents of young adults with SNI who were part of the transition process of moving from children to adult healthcare services in an acute hospital setting. Method: An interpretative descriptive qualitative design was used to establish the experiences of eleven parents of young adults with SNI on transitioning from paediatric to adult healthcare services in an acute hospital setting. Results: Reflexive thematic analysis revealed a challenging and complex transition. Progress to adult healthcare services was a major shift in care. Additionally, challenges and worries about what is to come in relation to the transition and how to face the unknown situations. The parents of young adults with SNI involved in this study were not prepared or supported in moving from paediatric to adult healthcare services. This study provides in-depth insights into their transition experience. Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that a more thoughtful and planned approach to transition is needed for young adults with SNI.