Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that often results in significant functional impairments and high relapse rates, particularly during the transition from hospital to home. While pharmacological treatment is essential, psychosocial nursing interventions play a critical role in sustaining recovery and improving community functioning.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of structured, nurse-led psychosocial interventions in improving symptom control, functional outcomes, treatment adherence, and relapse prevention among individuals with schizophrenia transitioning from inpatient care to community settings.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 120 individuals with schizophrenia recruited from a tertiary psychiatric hospital. Participants were randomized into two groups: an intervention group receiving structured psychosocial nursing care including psychoeducation, skills training, family involvement, and follow-up and a control group receiving standard discharge care. Outcomes were measured using PANSS, GAF, and SFS at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks post-discharge. Statistical analyses included paired and independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: The intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in PANSS total scores (−25.1±12.4 vs −12.1±11.7, p<0.001), higher GAF (+10 points, p<0.001) and SFS scores (+14 points, p<0.001) compared with controls. Adherence rates were higher (82% vs 63%, p=0.023), and relapse rates were lower (7% vs 20%, p=0.043). Significant group×time interactions favored the intervention for all primary and secondary outcomes.
Conclusion: Structured, nurse-led psychosocial interventions significantly enhance recovery outcomes for individuals with schizophrenia transitioning from hospital to home.