A comparative study of fluid management education before hospital discharge

Heart Lung. 2016 Jan-Feb;45(1):21-8. doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2015.11.003.

Abstract

Objectives: We examined if an education intervention [EduI] based on the Common Sense Model theoretical framework and 3-step action plan to control fluid-related symptoms and weight gain, decreased 6-month health care consumption.

Background: Heart failure (HF) morbidity is often related to fluid overload.

Methods: A 2-group comparative design with convenience sampling was used to assess rehospitalization (Hosp), emergency department (ED) and unplanned office visits. Analyses included regression models.

Results: Of 122 usual care [UC] and 122 EduI patients, mean (standard deviation) age was 65.8 (12.6) years. In multivariate analyses, first HF Hosp, total ED visits and ED visits for HF decompensation were lower in EduI compared to UC; p = 0.039, p = 0.025, and p = 0.001 respectively. There were no reductions in 6-month total Hosp or HF-related unplanned office visits.

Conclusions: An EduI with a 3-step action plan to control fluid-related symptoms and weight gain reduced first Hosp, total ED and HF-ED visits.

Keywords: Common Sense Model; Emergency department; Heart failure decompensation; Heart failure education; Rehospitalization; Unplanned office visits.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Body Weight
  • Emergency Service, Hospital / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Heart Failure / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Discharge*
  • Single-Blind Method