Key result
Congestive heart failure accounts for more than 2 million outpatient clinic visits per year in the United States at an annual cost exceeding $10 billion.
A thorough understanding of CHF pathophysiology and multidisciplinary management approaches led by advanced practice nurses can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Substantial CHF outpatient burden warrants optimized care models; leaves open the impact of advanced practice nurse-led multidisciplinary approaches.
PURPOSE: To explain key concepts involved in the development and management of congestive heart failure (CHF). An overview of medications commonly used in the treatment of CHF is also presented. DATA SOURCES: Selected clinical articles, major research studies, and clinical guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of CHF continues to increase and in the United States alone accounts for more than two million outpatient clinic visits per year at a cost of more than $10 billion annually. With the growing number of people over age 65, coupled with the advances in medical technology, primary care providers are treating many more patients with CHF. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: A thorough understanding of the pathophysiology, especially the compensatory neurohormonal systems and ventricular remodeling that are the hallmarks of CHF, is essential for consistent application of the principles of management of this complex condition. Multidisciplinary approaches led by advanced practice nurses have excellent outcomes and improve the quality of life of patients with CHF.
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Fletcher et al. (2001) conducted a review in Congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure accounts for more than 2 million outpatient clinic visits per year in the United States at an annual cost exceeding $10 billion.
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