Bridging the Gap: Communication Strategies for Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) Nurses Working With Adolescents

PURPOSE: To examine effective communication strategies for wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nurses working with adolescent patients and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving patient-provider interactions that consider adolescent developmental needs, cultural factors, and privacy concerns. METHOD: A narrative review of literature examining adolescent development, healthcare communication, and WOC nursing care was conducted to identify key principles and strategies for effective communication with adolescent patients. APPROACH: ST prevalence data were collected concurrently with the quarterly Pressure Injury Prevalence Survey over a period of 12-months (beginning the third quarter of 2017 through the second quarter of 2018) by the Pressure Injury Prevalence Survey Skin Care Champions using the revised Payne-Martin classification system for STs. A data collection form developed by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence nurse was also completed for the patients with ST(s). SEARCH STRATEGY: Literature was reviewed from nursing, psychology, and healthcare communication databases focusing on adolescent development, WOC care, nurse-patient communication, and cultural competency in adolescent healthcare settings. FINDINGS: Key findings include: (1) understanding adolescent development is crucial for effective communication; (2) cultural background significantly influences how adolescents perceive and communicate about WOC care; (3) technology and social media offer both opportunities and challenges for patient engagement; (4) privacy and confidentiality are paramount concerns requiring specific protocols; and (5) developmental-informed communication techniques improve patient outcomes and treatment adherence. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: WOC nurses can enhance care delivery and patient outcomes by employing developmentally appropriate communication strategies, respecting cultural differences, maintaining privacy, and leveraging technology appropriately. These approaches help build trust, promote self-management skills, and establish foundations for long-term health behaviors in adolescent patients.