Journal Club
Open Access Article

Life After Pediatric Cancer

Michelle Kolb

pediatric oncology, survivorship
CJON 2009, 13(6), E30-E40. DOI: 10.1188/09.CJON.E30-E40

The increasing survival rate from pediatric cancer has been one of the greatest accomplishments in the medical world in the 20th century. However, as young adult survivors move into adulthood, they must face the long-term side effects of their treatments. For such individuals, the transition to adulthood is complicated by their fragile medical and psychological state. The purpose of this article is to review current transition research and tailor basic principles to meet the needs of pediatric cancer survivors. Advanced practice nurses can take an active role in transitional planning by serving as coordinators and ensuring implementation of these needed services. The goal is to create an environment conducive to a smooth, problem-free transition to adult care.

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