Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p> <bold>Objectives</bold> Hydrocephalus is characterized by abnormal cerebrospinal fluid accumulation, resulting in increased intracranial pressure and neurological complications. Children require long-term care and monitoring for shunt malfunction and infection. Caregivers often experience psychological distress and inadequate knowledge and skills. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a nurse-led home care package on hospitalization, complications, psychological status, quality of life, and caregiving skills. <bold>Methods</bold> A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 60 caregivers of children with hydrocephalus attending the Pediatric Surgery units of PGIMER, Chandigarh. Caregivers were randomized into control (n = 30) and experimental (n = 30) groups using block randomization. Psychological status was assessed using DASS-21, quality of life using WHOQOL-BREF, and caregiving skills using an observational checklist. The experimental group received a nurse-led home care package. Outcomes were assessed after 45 days. <bold>Results</bold> The mean age of children was 11.58 ± 13.00 months in the control group and 21.35 ± 36.74 months in the experimental group. Most children had congenital hydrocephalus (93.3% and 96.7%, respectively). The experimental group showed lower hospitalization (6.7% vs. 10%) and fewer complications, although the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Anxiety [median 9.5 (5–14) vs. 14 (11–16); p = 0.034] and stress [median 14 (11.5–16) vs. 16 (14–18); p < 0.001] were significantly reduced. Competent caregiving skills increased from 6.7% to 73.3%, and quality of life improved significantly in the physical, psychological, and environmental domains. <bold>Conclusion</bold> The nurse-led home care package significantly improved caregivers' psychological status, quality of life, and caregiving skills. Although hospitalization and complications were reduced, the differences were not statistically significant. <bold>Trial Registration</bold> Clinical Trials Registry–India (CTRI) </p>