Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Quality Indicator: Discharge Instructions

This measurement is intended to be sure that patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) are given all the important information they need in written form to continue their care at home.

If you or a loved one has CHF, at discharge, make sure you have complete instructions for each of the following:

1. Diet
2. Medications
3. Weight monitoring
4. What to do if symptoms re-occur or worsen
5. Appropriate levels of activity
6. When do you follow up with your doctor(s)

The scores below look at our effectiveness at giving this information in a written form. Note: this can be a challenge for hospitals because often some of this information (like what to do if things worsen) is provided verbally.

Quality Indicator: Evaluation of Left Ventricle (LV) Function

The left side of your heart pumps blood to all parts of your body. The main chamber that provides the "horse power" is called the left ventricle (LV). Most people with CHF have problems with the LV's ability to contract. Understanding your LV's function (it's "squeeze"), provides valuable information to your doctor about your long-term prognosis and treatment. It also provides information about activity levels that are appropriate for you.

There are two ways to determine LV function. The most common is an ultrasound of the heart, also known as an echocardiogram (echo). This painless test can be evaluated across time to follow the progress/regress of your heart's squeeze. The less commonly used way is a nuclear medicine test called a MUGA.

The scores below reflect whether patients with CHF who have stayed in our hospital have had their LV function measured recently or have it planned for the future.

Quality Indicator: Appropriate Usage of ACE Inhibitors or ARB drugs

Long-term survival and quality of life have been enhanced by the use of ACE inhibitors and ARB drugs. Most individuals with CHF benefit from treatment with one these drugs.

The scores below illustrate our effectiveness at sending patients home on this very important type of medicine.

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