Evidence-based Management of Congestive Heart Failure

Evidence-based Management of Congestive Heart Failure
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Abstract
Despite major advances over the years in the treatment of heart diseases, people aged above 65 years are at risk of being diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). The illness is considered dangerous, even in its mildest form. Although most people who visit medical centers receive treatment, there is still a high rate of readmission. The problem is fostered by the lack of adherence among the patients in medication. The severity of the illness requires that patients are offered recurrent education and care services including how they should take medicine, eating habits, exercises, and going for checkups. The lack of these services increases the chances of a patient being readmitted. The solution to these issues requires an approach that supports the provision of care in the home setting. Home-based health care provision can be implemented through a multidisciplinary approach. A credible body of research shows that this approach has been effective in improving the healthcare system. It facilitates the engagement of various people in providing care. In this context, a multidisciplinary approach can be used for CHF patients by engaging professionals in the health care, social work, and family members. A challenge in using this approach is the financial burden incurred in health care services. Evidence-based initiatives such as multidisciplinary require a strategic approach to implementation and sustainability through appropriate budgeting and leadership.

Evidence-based Management of Congestive Heart Failure
Introduction
The management of heart failure is increasingly becoming a challenge for caregivers across the globe. Particularly, the increasing aging population has led to a rise in the occurrence of heart diseases, which adds to the financial burden of the patients, families, and the government. It is imperative that professionals in the healthcare industry come up with amicable solutions to treating and preventing heart diseases. One of the lethal conditions is the Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). It is highly prevalent among people aged 65 and above. According to Vinson et al. (1990), the illness is common among people who have a background of recurrent heart failure. According to McKee, Castelli, McNamara, Kannel, & McKee PA, Castelli WP, McNamara PM(1971), the condition is highly experienced in the developed world with 1-2% of the population aged 70 and above being diagnosed with the disease (McAlister, Stewart, Ferrua, and McMurray, 2004). Further reviews by Neubauer (2007) points out that 30-40% of CHF patients die within one year of receiving treatment for the disease. CHF is an illness that develops progressively over time and severe damage to the heart can occur before the individual is aware. It is evident that even in mild forms, CHF is risky and challenging to manage. CHF is deemed to be an ever gradually changing illness, particularly for people who lack adequate information on the challenges caused by the disease. The intent of this paper is to propose an evidence-based approach to managing CHF.
Problem
Evidence from various reviews shows that the management of CHF can be challenging to...