Exploring the Perceived Self-management Needs of Young Adults With Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

Abstract

To explore the perceived self-management needs of young adults with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) with the goal of optimizing the self-management and transitional care services. A qualitative descriptive study was performed with young adults diagnosed with OI. Two semistructured interviews were conducted before and after their first appointment with a nurse practitioner in the adult healthcare settings (a new partnership initiated by the pediatric hospital). Data were transcribed and descriptively analyzed. Seven participants with OI types I, III, and IV were interviewed. Ages ranged from 23 to 34 years, and years since discharge from the pediatric hospital ranged from 3 to 10. Four themes emerged including (1) dropped in the jungle, with no one to call; (2) they do not know how to treat me; (3) I feel like I'm going to get back in the loop; and (4) self-managing what I know, how I know. Similar to other childhood-onset conditions, adolescents and young adults with OI require education and mentorship, and clinicians in the adult healthcare system need to be prepared and supported to receive them. Collective efforts are needed to improve the self-management and transitional care needs for young adults with OI.