A multidisciplinary paediatric diabetes health care team: perspectives on adolescent care

Abstract

This paper focuses on a qualitative study of the experiences of a multidisciplinary health care team caring for adolescents with type 1 diabetes in a hospital in the North West of England. It builds upon previous research which has explored the lived experiences of young people and their parents/guardians with the aim of better understanding blood glucose control in this age group. Findings emphasise lack of human resources, the importance of effective team working, and the need for meaningful education which acknowledges adolescents' unique and complex social worlds. Given these findings we are now developing a computer-based ‘Adolescent Diabetes Needs Assessment Tool’ (ADNAT study), with a view to individualising self-directed education and support. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons.