Enhancing the results after discharge for acute heart failure

Abstract

Introduction: Over the past few decades, the burden of acute heart failure (AHF) on a worldwide scale has not altered. European registries confirmed that hospitalisation for AHF implies a shift in the natural history of the disease process and that 1-year outcome rates are still too high. Given the poor prognosis of HF patients, it is critical to take advantage of hospital stays to: 1) evaluate the constituent parts of the cardiac substrate; 2) recognise and manage comorbidities; 3) identify early, safe therapy endpoints to enable prompt hospital discharge and outpatient follow-up; and 4) execute and initiate optimisation guideline-directed medical therapies (GDMTs). Acute heart failure (AHF) is associated with high rates of hospital readmission and mortality after discharge. Improving post-discharge care is crucial to enhancing patient outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach in enhancing outcomes after discharge for patients with acute heart failure. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using hospital records of patients discharged with a primary diagnosis of heart failure. Outcomes were assessed over a 12-month period A prospective cohort study was conducted to assess the impact of a comprehensive discharge plan on readmission rates, mortality, and patient quality of life. Results: Implementation of a multidisciplinary approach resulted in a significant reduction in 30-day readmission rates and improved patient-reported outcomes. Conclusion: A structured, multidisciplinary post-discharge plan is essential for improving long-term outcomes in patients with acute heart failure.