An integrative review of the literature about the transition of pediatric patients with intestinal failure from hospital to home.

Purpose: Children with intestinal failure (IF) have complex needs that pose many challenges while in the hospital and upon transition to home. The purpose of this review was to identify factors associated with the complexity of transitional care in this population of children, as well as to explore frameworks for providing care for transition to home.
Design and Method: Eleven publications, including research and clinical practice articles, were identified for an integrative review.
Results: Four themes emerged regarding IF and transition: complex healthcare needs, planning for and beginning transition, identification of family requirements, and frameworks for providing transitional care.
Practice Implications: Nurses working with families of children with IF can facilitate successful transition into the home by planning in advance and using a framework that addresses the needs of the patient and family.
(© 2012, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)