Bridging Theory and Practice in Cardiac Care: The Role of Transition Theory in Designing Patient-Centered Interventions

Objective: This study aims to explore how Transition Theory can inform the design of effective, patient-centered interventions in cardiac care.

Methods and Materials: A narrative review was conducted to synthesize literature published between 2014 and 2024, focusing on how Transition Theory applies to cardiac care transitions, including hospital discharge, rehabilitation, and home-based management. Studies were identified through electronic database searches and screened based on relevance to Transition Theory, cardiac rehabilitation, and patient-centered care. Descriptive analysis was employed to categorize the findings, with particular attention to the physical, emotional, and social dimensions that influence patient experiences. Special emphasis was placed on identifying key transition points and integrating theoretical constructs into practical interventions that address both immediate clinical needs and long-term adaptation.

Findings: The review highlighted that applying Transition Theory to cardiac care offers a more comprehensive understanding of how patients navigate significant health changes. It revealed that common transition points, such as moving from hospital to home or graduating from a structured rehabilitation program, are critical periods that can either facilitate recovery or increase risk of setbacks. Patient-centered interventions that incorporate elements of Transition Theory—such as individualized education, psychosocial support, and interdisciplinary coordination—were associated with enhanced adherence, improved clinical outcomes, and greater patient satisfaction. However, the review also identified challenges, including organizational constraints, limited provider training, and the need for better integration of theory-based practices across diverse healthcare settings.

Conclusion: Transition Theory provides a valuable framework for understanding and supporting the multifaceted transitions that cardiac patients experience. Tailoring interventions to each patient’s evolving needs has the potential to improve continuity of care, encourage self-management, and ultimately reduce readmissions. Further research should focus on empirically validating theory-driven interventions and developing interdisciplinary models that incorporate social determinants and technological innovations.