Text Box: AN ADOLESCENT UNIT: THE DIFFERENCE IT MAKES. Jackson R1; Shea L1. 1The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia Background: International recognition of adolescent health and the associated unique developmental needs is well established. The Adolescent Unit at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), Melbourne was developed in 1984 as one of the first units established specifically to address the health care needs of young people irrespective of diagnosis. Objective: It is the mission of the Adolescent Unit at RCH to improve the health and well being of young people receiving health care in a manner that reflects their unique developmental needs. Methods: Nursing staff work within a model of total patient care, encompassing physical care and treatment, emotional support, advocacy and education. Patients are admitted under any specialty, medical or surgical unit resulting in a very diverse and challenging nursing environment. A collaborative approach is taken with all health care disciplines as we work together in the empowerment of young people taking control of their own health within a supportive environment. Results: A supportive and nurturing team environment occurs as all members of the health care team work together and enable the provision of the best possible care for the young people and their families who access our service. Nursing staff not only possess specialised skills and expertise in caring for adolescents but also gather a broad knowledge base in all aspects of nursing care. The young people and their families that utilise the services of the Adolescent Unit at RCH report high levels of satisfaction in the quality of nursing care they receive Conclusion: Nursing staff working within the Adolescent Unit at RCH are committed to providing total patient care within an environment which caters to the unique developmental needs of the adolescent patient. 2488