Nurse's role in promoting health transitions for adolescents and young adults with developmental disabilities

Abstract

This article examines the impact of cultural factors influencing the youth's transition process and includes recommendations for addressing these needs within the context of nursing practice. Youth-centered transition planning begins with a comprehensive, culturally competent assessment of adolescent and family needs in order to foster youth autonomy and family support during this important stage of development. Nurses who work with youth with developmental disabilities are faced with many questions from youth and families regarding the how, what, when, and where of transition planning, such as "Where do I find an adult health care provider who has the clinical expertise and sensitivity to my disability concerns?" and "Where can I get health insurance coverage when I "age out" of the health insurance program I am currently enrolled in?" The questions youth and families have not only reflect their needs for services and supports, but also represent the cultural context of their experiences. Who is this youth who is fast growing up, soon to become an adult? What has been this young person's experiences as a boy or a girl, a person with a developmental disability, a member of his or her family, and a member of the community? Each youth's experiences have an enormous impact shaping his or her progression through adolescence, and the impact continues with adult development. Nurses can serve as pivotal members of the team assisting these youths with developmental disabilities and their families in confronting the challenges and excitement of successfully transitioning to adulthood.