Treating Congestive Heart Failure

4th QTR 2010 - 3rd QTR 2011

HF-1: Appropriate Discharge Instructions

Following recommended discharge instructions in six areas has been shown to help patients manage the disease and decrease the number of times they may need to be hospitalized. Heart failure is usually a long-term condition that tends to gradually become worse. The six areas are instructions on how active the patient can be, any foods to avoid, when the next doctor appointment should be scheduled, what medications should be taken at home, what symptoms the patient should call the doctor about, and how to monitor weight. (85% of 210 patients in this time period)

HF-2: ACE Inhibitor for LRB or LVSD

A measure of quality in treating heart failure in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. These drugs prevent further weakening of the heart in patients who already have weakening. The rate is calculated by dividing the number of patients who receive one of these medications by the number of patients who should receive them according to national guidelines. (100% of 349 patients for this time period)

HF-3: Assessment of Left Ventricular Function

A measure of the quality in treating patients with heart failure. Proper treatment of heart failure depends on what area of the heart is affected. It is important to know how the left chamber of the heart is pumping (LVF). (92% of 88 patients for this time period)

HF-4: Smoking Cessation Counseling

According to the 1990 Surgeon General's Report, the Health Benefits of Smoking Cessation, quitting smoking can greatly reduce the occurrence of coronary heart disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease. The report also states that quitting smoking reduces the risk of repeat heart attacks and death from heart disease by 50% or more. Smoking cessation is important in the medical management of many contributors to heart failure. (100% of 28 patients in this time period)