187 The Conditions of Adolescent Patients at a Danish Tertiary University Hospital

Abstract

Aims: We aimed to explore conditions of adolescent inpatients viewed by the staff. Methods: Questionnaire survey among the staff at Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet from five paediatric (n=36) and 13 adult (n=64) in-patient wards. Results: Confidentiality and consent: Only 1/3 of the participants estimated that their colleagues were fully familiar with the rules on confidentiality and consent for adolescents < 18 years. Staff skills: 28% knew of professionals with special skills in the care of adolescent patients. However, there was no structured education or evaluation. Only a small minority knew any written guidelines for the care of adolescent patients. Involvement of adolescents: 70% found it important to involve young patients when deciding whether admission should take place at the paediatric or adult ward. However, this was the case in only a minority of cases. At the paediatric departments, 1/4 of the staff felt that the patients were involved too little in treatment decisions. Environment: Dayrooms dedicated for adolescents were present in two of the paediatric and none of the adult wards, and only 1/3 of staff found that the general facilities met the need of adolescents. There were activities dedicated for adolescents at two paediatric and one adult department. Conclusions: Although international guidelines for adolescent friendly health services exist, there was no structured staff education or clear written guidelines. Involvement of adolescent patients regarding treatment decisions could be improved especially at the paediatric departments. Adolescent-specific activities and environment were sparse especially at the adult wards.