Evaluation of a Nurse-Led Tele-Rehabilitation Model for Post-Surgical Cardiac Patients

Background: Post-surgical cardiac patients require intensive follow-up to prevent complications and ensure recovery. In resource-limited settings, tele-rehabilitation led by trained nurses offers a viable alternative to traditional in-hospital care. Aim of the Study: To evaluate the effect of a nurse-led tele-rehabilitation model for post-surgical cardiac patients .Subjects and Methods: Design: A quasi-experimental (pre-post test) research design was utilized. Setting: The study was conducted at the Cardiothoracic Surgery Department at Sohag University Hospital. Sample: Nurses: A convenient sample of 50 nurses working in the aforementioned departments. Patients: A convenient sample of 200 post-surgical cardiac patients (CABG or valve replacement) followed up before and after the intervention. Tools: Tool 1: Nurses’ Assessment Tool, Tool 2: Patients’ Clinical Outcome Tool, Tool 3: Cardiac Self-Efficacy Scale (CSEM), Tool 4: Quality of Life (SF-36 Health Survey), and Tool 5: Tele-rehabilitation Platform. Results: A statistically significant improvement (P < 0.001) in nurses' knowledge and practice scores regarding cardiac rehabilitation post-intervention. For Patients: Significant enhancement in self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, higher adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors, and a notable reduction in hospital readmission rates within 3 months compared to pre-intervention baseline levels. Conclusion:The nurse-led tele-rehabilitation model is an effective, accessible, and safe strategy for improving recovery outcomes for cardiac patients. It bridges the gap between hospital discharge and long-term recovery. Recommendations: Integrating tele-nursing into the routine discharge plan for all cardiac surgery patients and providing continuous training for surgical nurses on digital health tools.