Efficacy of a continuity of care program based on discharge readiness for children with chronic liver disease

Pediatric chronic liver disease imposes heavy physical and family burdens, while effective transition support from hospital to home after discharge remains inadequate. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a discharge readiness-based continuity of care program for children with chronic liver disease (CLD). A total of 92 children aged 0–14 years with CLD were enrolled. The continuity of care program was developed by integrating findings from questionnaire surveys, qualitative interviews, a literature review, and expert consultation, and was tailored according to the children’s level of discharge readiness. No significant differences were observed between the control and intervention groups with respect to baseline characteristics or social support. However, compared with the control group, children in the intervention group demonstrated significantly higher discharge readiness across all dimensions and received higher-quality discharge guidance scores ( p < 0.001). Anxiety scores were significantly lower in the intervention group ( p < 0.05). The discharge readiness-based continuity of care program for children with CLD significantly improved discharge readiness and the quality of discharge guidance scores. It may also promote the development of self-care abilities among children and their caregivers, enhance satisfaction with nursing care, reduce anxiety levels, and ultimately improve quality of life.