Executive functioning, adherence, and trasition readiness in adolescent transplant recipients
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate executive functioning in a sample of adolescent transplant recipients and to examine its associations with adherence and readiness to transition from pediatric to adult care. Method: Thirty-six adolescents (M = 16.64; SD = 1.53) with a solid organ transplant and their caregivers were administered self- and proxy-report measures. Results: T-test analyses revealed clinically significant elevations in executive functioning abilities in adolescent transplant recipients compared to normally developing youth. Better executive functioning abilities were a significant predictor of better medication adherence, fewer barriers to adherence, and greater transition readiness. Discussion: Adolescent transplant recipients are at risk for deficits in executive functioning. The assessment of executive functioning abilities may guide adherence and transition readiness intervention efforts designed to promote positive outcomes.
URI
http://purl.galileo.usg.edu/uga_etd/gutierrez-colina_ana_m_201412_mshttp://hdl.handle.net/10724/31423