LIVER transplantation is a life-saving procedure, however many patients experience significant psychological and physical challenges post-surgery, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. These issues can severely impact quality of life, yet traditional nursing care often fails to comprehensively address them. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a targeted nursing program designed to improve mental and physical health outcomes for liver transplantation patients.
A randomised controlled trial was conducted at Beijing Youan Hospital between 2021 and 2023, involving 80 liver transplant recipients. Patients were randomly assigned to either the control group, receiving traditional nursing care, or the intervention group, receiving a targeted nursing program. The intervention incorporated psychological support, lifestyle guidance, pain management, and rehabilitation training. Researchers assessed patients’ anxiety, depression, and sleep quality using standardised scales, including the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). These assessments were conducted at four time points: 0-60, 61-120, 121-180, and 181-360 days post-transplantation.
The findings demonstrated a clear reduction in psychological distress and sleep disturbances among patients who received targeted nursing care. The incidence of anxiety decreased from 42.50% at 0-60 days to 30.00% at 181-360 days, while depression rates dropped significantly from 14.50% to 1.20%. Sleep disturbances also declined, with the incidence falling from 15.80% to 6.50%. Statistical analysis confirmed that patients in the intervention group experienced significantly lower anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance scores compared to those receiving traditional care (p<0.05).
These results highlight the importance of a comprehensive nursing approach that integrates psychological support, lifestyle adjustments, pain relief strategies, and rehabilitation. By addressing both mental and physical recovery, this intervention significantly enhances patients’ overall well-being. The progressive decline in anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances over time suggests that sustained nursing care plays a crucial role in long-term recovery.
Given its effectiveness, this targeted nursing program is highly recommended for widespread implementation in post-liver transplantation care. Adopting such a holistic approach could lead to improved patient outcomes and better long-term health, ensuring that liver transplant recipients receive the support necessary for a smoother recovery and enhanced quality of life.
Katie Wright, EMJ
Reference
Xi SM et al. Effect of a nursing program on anxiety, depression, and insomnia in patients after liver transplantation: a randomized controlled trial. Ann Transplant. 2025;30:e947351.
