Development and design of a multidisciplinary training program for outpatient children and adolescents with psoriasis and their parents

Abstract

Introduction: To describe and illustrate in a case-study design the development and design of a multidisciplinary training program for outpatient children and adolescents with psoriasis and their parents. Methods: For the development of the program, a steering group was assembled, systematic semi-structured interviews were held and the literature was reviewed. Results: Aim of the training program was to strengthen patients and their parents in coping with and diminishing psoriasis-related problems in an outpatient setting. The program included treatment modules of medical information and skin care, itch and scratch problems, psychological issues in coping with the psoriasis, sleep hygiene and relapse prevention. Descriptive results in the case patient showed improvement of all outcome variables in the expected direction. Conclusion: This is the first multidisciplinary training program for outpatient children and adolescents with psoriasis and their parents. It aims at improving coping skills and self-management and could be a promising addition to regular treatment.