Nurse Assisted Post-discharge Intervention in Decompensated Cirrhosis
Nurse Assisted Post-discharge Intervention in Decompensated Cirrhosis
In a randomized controlled trial, the effects of a nurse-driven post-discharge intervention
 for patients with liver cirrhosis compared with standard follow-up will be investigated.
Since 1970 the mortality from cirrhosis has increased with 26.7 %, with a 50% mortality rate
 within 2 years of diagnosis. Grave complications result in functional impairment and reduced
 quality of life. 20-37 % of patients with liver cirrhosis are readmitted less than 30 days
 after a hospitalization for decompensation. These patients have a higher 90-day mortality
 rate than those who avoid readmission. Re-admissions have great personal-, societal- and
 economic consequences.

 In a randomized controlled trial, the effects of a nurse-driven post-discharge intervention
 for patients with liver cirrhosis, compared with standard follow-up will be investigated.

 The intervention, based on concepts from Family Nursing, will comprise three home-visits
 within eight weeks after discharge including therapeutic conversations focusing on
 strengthening participants' family relationships and social networks, disease education and
 help to initiate contact to municipal offers. After 12 weeks the participants will be
 followed-up by telephone.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and one or more complications hereto during
 admission to the Gastro Unit, AHH. Complications include, but are not limited to:
 hepatic encephalopathy, infection, ascites, edema, kidney failure, upper or lower GI
 bleeding.

 -  Patients must read and understand Danish.

 -  Adults >18 years.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  When the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis is questioned with reasonable doubt or the
 diagnosis of liver cirrhosis is disproved by histology or relevant imaging.

 -  Patients with comorbidity as the primary diagnosis and where an independent
 rehabilitation or post-discharge program is offered, for example hip fracture, chronic
 obstructive pulmonary disease etc.

 -  Patients diagnosed with an active and invasive malignant disease.

 -  Residency outside the catchment area of Amager Hvidovre Hospital.