Just between Us: An Integrative Review of Confidential Care for Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Confidential care is recommended for all adolescents to facilitate risk behavior screening and discussion of sensitive topics. Only 40% of adolescents receive confidential care. The purpose of this integrative review is to describe research related to the practice of confidential care for adolescents. Evidence was analyzed to identify strategies to increase confidential care and improve risk behavior screening.

Method: Whittemore and Knafl's integrative literature review process was applied.

Results: The 26 research articles included in this review included patients', parents', and physicians' perspectives. Confidential care practice is inconsistent. Strategies to improve practice are known.

Conclusions: Four key elements should be considered to establish a practice culture of confidential care for adolescents. Strategies for implementing the key elements of confidential care and supporting resources for efficient use of time alone are provided.

Keywords: Adolescent; confidential; confidential care; risk behavior.