- Smart post-discharge platform significantly improved health-related quality of life over six months, with benefits across multiple physical and mental health domains.
- Self-management abilities increased markedly in the intervention group, indicating enhanced patient engagement and capability for post-discharge care.
- High usability and cost benefits reported: 96.35% rated usability high and 70.83% reported reduced healthcare costs.
Int J Nurs Pract. 2026 Jun;32(3):e70151. doi: 10.1111/ijn.70151.
ABSTRACT
AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Smart Post-Discharge Elderly Health Management Platform on health-related quality of life and self-management after hospital discharge.
BACKGROUND: The global aging population has increased challenges in post-discharge care for older adults, particularly due to chronic conditions and the need for continuous care.
DESIGN: Cluster randomised controlled trial.
METHODS: The trial enrolled 383 elderly patients assigned to a platform-based intervention or standard telephone follow-up, with health-related quality of life, self-management, usability and economic outcomes assessed over 6 months. This study was reported in accordance with the CONSORT guidelines.
RESULTS: Repeated measures analyses showed significantly greater improvements in HRQoL in the intervention group over 6 months (p = 0.026), with significant improvements across multiple physical and mental health domains (p = 0.002-0.021). Self-management total scores increased significantly (p < 0.001). Platform usability was rated highly by 96.35% of users, and 70.83% reported reduced healthcare costs.
CONCLUSIONS: Providing a practical framework for integrating technology into nursing practice for aging populations, this platform shows promise for post-discharge elderly care by strengthening nurse-led digital health delivery, care continuity, self-management and health outcomes beyond hospital settings.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR2400089720.
PMID:42138722 | DOI:10.1111/ijn.70151
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