Question

The medical-surgical nurse, a member of the quality improvement (QI) committee, is tasked to research interventions to decrease the likelihood that clients, diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF), from being rehospitalized within three weeks of acute care discharge. Which QI initiative is most likely to decrease the need for acute care management for clients diagnosed with CHF?

A. Present dietary teaching to the client prior to discharge.
B. Review symptoms indicative for exacerbation with the client.
C. Provide each client with a scale to monitor daily weights.
D. Arrange for a home care nurse to assess the client monthly.

Answer 1

The most effective quality improvement initiative to decrease rehospitalization for CHF patients is to provide each client with a scale to monitor daily weights, as it allows for early detection of fluid accumulation and exacerbation of CHF symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which quality improvement (QI) initiative is most likely to decrease the likelihood of clients diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF) from being rehospitalized within three weeks of acute care discharge. The QI initiative that is most likely to decrease the need for acute care management for clients with CHF is to provide each client with a scale to monitor daily weights.

Daily weight monitoring is crucial for managing CHF because it allows clients and healthcare providers to detect fluid accumulation promptly, which is a common reason for exacerbation and rehospitalization in CHF patients. This intervention helps to review symptoms indicative of exacerbation with the client and allows them to act quickly if there are signs of worsening condition. Although all options presented can contribute to the overall care of a CHF patient, providing a scale for daily weight monitoring addresses a direct and measurable aspect of CHF management that can lead to timely interventions, possibly preventing rehospitalization.