Quality Data – Heart Failure
What is a Heart Failure?
Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure (CHF), is a life-threatening condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Heart failure is almost always a chronic, long-term condition, although it can sometimes develop suddenly. This condition may affect the right side, left side, or both sides of the heart.
How is Care Measured?
When someone is experiencing heart failure, timely, clear-cut treatment is critical. Evidence has shown that patients who received specific treatments and medications at certain times experienced the best outcomes. These procedures and medications include:
- Assessment of Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction;
- ACE Inhibitor or ARB for Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction (LVSD);
- Discharge instructions;
- Smoking cessation advise/counseling.
Brief Explanation:
- ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors and ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers) are medicines used to treat heart attacks, heart failure, or a decreased function of the heart.
- An evaluation of the LVS function checks how the left chamber of the heart is pumping.
- The staff at the hospital should provide you with information to help you manage your heart failure symptoms when you are discharged.
- Smoking is linked to heart failure. Quitting may help improve your condition.
Hays Medical Center exceeds averages for the region and across the nation for the above heart failure care standards.