Date of Award
4-22-2025
Document Type
Independent Study
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Department
Nursing
Program Affiliation
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
First Advisor
Dr. Jana Zwilling
Abstract
Background: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of hospital readmissions, with nearly one in four patients experiencing rehospitalization within 30 days of discharge. Readmissions within this timeframe present a significant clinical and economic challenge for patients and healthcare services. Reducing 30-day readmissions has become a central goal for hospitals aiming to improve patient outcomes and minimize financial burdens.
Purpose: To evaluate whether patient-centered discharge instructions are an effective tool in reducing 30-day readmission rates for patients with HF.
Method: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL databases. Keywords such as heart failure, readmission, education, discharge, and instructions were applied. Inclusion criteria were studies that specified the form of discharge instruction and were published within the last five years. Exclusion criteria were studies that did not identify a discharge instruction form, were published more than five years ago, or did not relate to 30-day readmission.
Results: Using patient-centered discharge instructions through one-to-one teach-back method reduced 30-day readmission rates by half. Knowledge base, competency of discharging nurses, and scheduled follow-up care were also found to be significant contributing factors.
Implications for Practice: Utilization of one-to-one teach back methods are an effective yet inexpensive method to assist in reducing 30-day readmissions. Additional forms or reducing readmissions include methods such as aggressive diuresis of patients to achieve dry weight during hospitalization, initiation of Guideline Directed Medical Therapy before discharge, education on low-sodium diets, symptom management, medication titration, and utilizing remote monitoring systems to recognize acute decompensation episodes before hospitalization are all recommended practices.
Recommended Citation
Spiering, Ashley, "The Effect of Patient-Centered Discharge Instructions in Reducing 30-Day Readmission Rates in Heart Failure Patients" (2025). Nursing Capstones. 388.
https://commons.und.edu/nurs-capstones/388