Risk and Triggers for Exacerbation of Congestive Heart Failure

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Nursing Specialist at Heart Hospital, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.

2 Professor of Medical-Surgical Nursing Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Egypt.

3 Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt.

4 Assistant Professor of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Egypt.

Abstract

Background Congestive heart failure exacerbations can be triggered by a variety of factors, many of which are preventable. Understanding these risks is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies. Aim: To assess risk and triggers for exacerbation of congestive heart failure.  Research design: A descriptive research design was utilized in the study. Setting: Emergency Heart Unit and cardiovascular medicine department at Assiut University Heart Hospital.  Sample: A purposive sample of 67 adult patients diagnosed with heart failure were included. Tools:  Three tools were used to collect dataTool I:  Congestive Heart Failure Patient Assessment sheet, Tool II: Triggers for exacerbation of congestive heart failure. Tool III: Ottawa Heart Failure Risk Score. Results: (65.7 %) of the studied patients their age ranged between 50 to less 65yrs. (50.7%) of studied patients had  left side heart failure & (46.3%) their total length of stay ranged from 5 to 10 days & (35.8%) of the studied patients had high risk for exacerbation. Regarding triggers (70.1%) were non-complied with their medications, (50.7%) had high sodium intake & (52.2%) of them had worsening in renal function. Conclusion: The main triggers for exacerbation of congestive heart failure were medication non-compliance, worsening in renal function, high sodium intake, electrolyte imbalances, respiratory infection and cardiac arrhythmia. Recommendation: It is important to emphasize on the role of nurse to educate patients with heart failure about triggers for exacerbation of congestive heart failure to prevent congestive heart failure deterioration.

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