P.168 Improving transitioning from pediatric to adult care: a qualitative study of patients with hydrocephalus and their caregivers

Background: Hydrocephalus is a common pediatric condition but many neurosurgeons cannot continue to care for patients into adulthood. Although gaps in are thought exist youth transitioning adult care, little known about how patients/caregivers feel the process. This study examined perceptions of adolescents and young adults from at single centre. Methods: We explored with hydrocephalus process using semi-structured interviews qualitative research methodologies grounded theory. 40 patient/caregivers (7 adolescents, 13 adults, 20 parents) BC Children’s Hospital Clinic Vancouver General Hospital. Interviews were transcribed verbatim coded, themes identified. Results: Four relating identified: (1): Poor communiction; (2) Uncertainty living life as an hydrocephalus; (3) Anxiety fear regarding navigating new health environment; (4) sadness loss relationship team. Conclusions: identified general dissatisfaction hydrocephalus. Common concerns may form basis improved model they become adults.