Home-Based Exercise Education in Liver Transplant Recipients

The Effect of Brochure- and Video-Based Home Exercise Education on Physical Activity, Fatigue, and Caregiver Burden in Liver Transplant Recipients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Liver transplant recipients often experience reduced physical activity levels, fatigue, and increased caregiver burden after transplantation. Structured home-based exercise education may help improve these outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the effects of brochure-based and video-based home exercise education programs on physical activity levels, fatigue, and caregiver burden in liver transplant recipients.

Participants are assigned to either a brochure-based exercise education group, a video-based exercise education group, or a control group receiving standard care. The primary objective is to determine whether structured home exercise education improves physical activity and reduces fatigue and caregiver burden compared to standard care.

Regular physical activity is essential for improving functional capacity and quality of life in liver transplant recipients. However, many recipients experience persistent fatigue, decreased physical activity levels, and increased caregiver burden after transplantation. Structured and accessible home-based exercise education may provide a practical approach to support long-term rehabilitation in this population.

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two different home-based exercise education methods: brochure-based education and video-based education. Participants receive standardized exercise recommendations designed to promote safe and gradual increases in physical activity. The intervention period includes structured follow-up and guidance to enhance adherence. A control group receives standard post-transplant care without structured exercise education.

Outcome measures include physical activity level, fatigue severity, and caregiver burden, assessed at predefined time points during the study period. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of accessible rehabilitation strategies for liver transplant recipients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult liver transplant recipients
• Aged 18 years or older
• Clinically stable and cleared for participation in physical activity
• Able to understand and follow exercise instructions
• Provided written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of severe cardiovascular, respiratory, or musculoskeletal conditions that contraindicate exercise
• Acute transplant rejection or severe post-transplant complications
• Cognitive impairment limiting participation
• Participation in another structured exercise program during the study period