Objective To explore the effect of health education based on Meleis′ transitions theory on improving families′ readiness for discharge of their preterm infant. Methods Eighty caregivers of preterm infants were divided into two groups chronologically, with 40 in each group. The control group was given routine health education and discharge guidance, while the observation group received health education which was developed based on Meleis′ transitions theory and implemented in the discharge planning process. The discharge readiness of caregivers and the rate of readmission to hospital within 3 months of discharge were compared between the two groups. Results The observation group had significantly higher discharge readiness and lower readmission rate compared with the control group (both P<0.05). Conclusion Health education based on Meleis′ transitions theory can improve discharge readiness of caregivers of preterm infants and reduce the readmission rate.