Adolescents’ view and experiences of living with type 1 diabetes

This literature review aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of adolescents living with Type 1 Diabetes, and its impact on their lives. The prevalence and the number of adolescents living with this condition are rapidly increasing in western societies. Therefore, it is imperative that these adolescents’ views and experiences are well researched and understood, so they can receive the optimum support they need. A systematic database search identified studies conducted between 2004 and 2014, from 5 different countries. Most participants in the studies were adolescents between the ages of 13-17, although some studies included participants from 11 to 18 years. Key findings identified were striving for autonomy, parental conflicts, yearning for social acceptance and concerns regarding diabetes education. Psychosocial, management and knowledge of type 1 diabetes were the major themes identified following the thematic analysis. The psychosocial impact of living with type 1 diabetes was significant amongst adolescents. Therefore, they would benefit from more in-depth research on this subject, identifying contemporary and innovative ways to help them cope better with their condition

Sickle cell anaemia and the experiences of young people living with the condition

This qualitative literature review examines the experiences of young people with Sickle Cell Anaemia (SCA). Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a condition acknowledged for its unpredictability, painful episodes and life threatening nature. The aim was to explore the impact SCA has on young people and the experiences they face. After reviewing potential articles found from the EBSCOhost platform, an inclusion and exclusion criteria was used and six appropriate studies were found with the majority of the participants in the 10-25 age range. However, one study had some participants in the early childhood and another had some of the sample in the young adult age range. These articles concentrated on the UK and North America instead of a broader international experience. The critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) was then used to evaluate the articles found. Thematic analysis identified three themes: acceptance, support and unpredictability, with subthemes of spirituality and discrimination. It was clear that SCA affected multiple areas of young peoples’ lives, and health professionals need to consider young people’s views. The terms Sickle Cell Anaemia and Sickle Cell Disease are used interchangeably throughout this review

Development, delivery and evaluation of a team building project

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the design, development, delivery and evaluation of a customised team building project on a paediatric unit. Design/methodology/approach – The project content was tailored to meet the developmental needs of the staff working within the units, incorporating both soft and hard leadership approaches. A personal self development approach was used, and how this could enhance team working. Theory was embedded using innovative approaches that enabled practical application facilitating both surface and deep learning. Findings – All staff participated and found themselves to have significantly developed both as individuals and as a team. They also identified the support required from management in order to fulfil their potential and to work effectively as a team. The teams have since completion of the project been more cohesive, are working more effectively and patient care has improved. Practical implications – The project demonstrated how externally developed team building projects can be an effective approach to team building and leadership skill set acquisition, which can then be utilised in the practice arena. Originality/value – Utilisation of a person centred approach to team building enables the individual to develop both as an individual and as a team – allowing them to contribute at a higher level