Development and Improvement of Home Rehabilitation Scheme for Preschool Children With Congenital Heart Disease After Operation

This study includes three groups. For children with congenital heart disease after surgery, inclusion criteria are age 3 to 7, one-time corrective open-heart surgery in the research unit, and ability to communicate in Chinese. Exclusions are arrhythmia after surgery, other diseases unsuitable for exercise, heart function class IV, and perioperative disorders.

For caregivers, must be main caregiver, volunteer, spend most time caring, and communicate in Chinese. Exclusions are those who give up treatment, are paid caregivers, have cognitive impairment or mental illness, cannot express feelings, have contradictions with child, or cannot use electronic devices.

For medical professionals, must hold license and have at least 5 years of related practice. Exclusions are non-frontline staff or those absent in recent year.

Children With Congenital Heart Disease After Surgery

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 3 to 7 years
• Clinical diagnosis of congenital heart disease
• Underwent a single open-heart surgical correction under direct vision at the study site
• Ability to communicate in Chinese

Exclusion Criteria:

• Postoperative arrhythmia
• Comorbid neurological, respiratory, or other systemic diseases
• Deemed unsuitable for exercise by a physician
• Cardiac function classified as NYHA Class IV
• Intellectual, language, or motor impairments resulting from perioperative complications or other causes

Caregivers of Children With Congenital Heart Disease After Surgery

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary caregiver who voluntarily provides care
• Caregiver who spends the most time with the child
• Ability to communicate in Chinese

Exclusion Criteria:

• Caregivers of children who voluntarily discontinued treatment before completion
• Paid or professional caregivers
• Diagnosed cognitive impairment or mental illness
• Inability to communicate effectively through spoken language
• Presence of serious conflict or instability in the caregiver-child relationship
• Inability to independently operate or use smart electronic devices and the internet

Medical Professionals Involved in Congenital Heart Disease Care

Inclusion Criteria:

• Licensed healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, physical therapists, or psychological counselors
• At least 5 years of professional experience in congenital heart disease care, rehabilitation, or education

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not currently engaged in frontline clinical work
• Not engaged in clinical work within the past year due to leave, study, or reassignment