The development and evaluation of a HeartBEAT Adolescent Transition Psychoeducational Program for adolescents with congenital heart defects: a preliminary study

Abstract

Objectives: The present study aims to develop and test the effectiveness of a HeartBEAT Adolescent Transition Psychoeducation Program (ATPP) in facilitating the well-being of adolescents who have been diagnosed with congenital heart defects (CHD). Methods: The HeartBEAT ATPP was developed after reviewing existing transition interventions and determining adolescents' needs. It was based upon two theories, namely the Shared Management Model and Antonovsky's Salutogenic Model and included five aspects: (i) knowledge on illness and treatments, (ii) self-management and transition skills, (iii) purpose of life, (iv) social support, and (v) emotional regulation skills. Mixed-methods pilot testing was then conducted. Paired t-test was used to explore the effectiveness and qualitative interviews were also conducted. Results/Conclusions: Fourteen patients aged 16-19 enrolled in this study, but only eight patients successfully complete the programme. Results showed that a paired t-test was conducted to determine its effectiveness. Results showed that the programme had significantly increased self-management knowledge (t (7) = -6.328, p < 0.05) and affectionate support (t (7) = -1.029, p < 0.05). Qualitative findings also showed that all patients were able to share emotional regulation and identify their purpose of life after the programme. However, there was no significant increase in their self-management skills. In summary, the HeartBEAT ATPP has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing self-management knowledge, affectionate support, identifying the patients' life plan, and enhancing the emotional regulation skills of the adolescents with CHD.