Implementing a Pictorial Tool to Improve Heart Failure Knowledge in Hispanic Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice project was to implement an educational intervention to improve heart failure knowledge and self-care behaviors in Hispanic heart failure patients. Background: Heart failure is a chronic health condition associated with frequent hospitalizations and high mortality. Heart failure affects more than eight million Americans leading to high healthcare costs. It is estimated that by 2050, the United States (US) population will be one-third Hispanic. Hispanics will show an increased prevalence of heart failure due to cardiometabolic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and coronary artery disease. Social factors include limited education, income disparities, and health literacy that may worsen health outcomes. Methods: The American Heart Association’s Rise Above Heart Failure Self-Check pictorial tool was used as the education intervention. The Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale measured heart failure knowledge. The Self-Care of Heart Failure Index Scale v7.2, measured self-care behaviors including self-care maintenance, symptom perception, and management. Both scales were administered pre- and post-educational intervention; scores were compared to determine the difference. Demographic information was obtained pre-intervention and a survey post-intervention to determine satisfaction with the intervention. Results: Twelve Hispanic heart failure patients from a cardiology practice in rural Southwestern Arizona participated in this project. Most participants were female, older than 65, and had a high school education. Heart failure knowledge improved from baseline of 7.42 to 14.42 post-intervention (p = < .001). Self-care maintenance scores improved from baseline of 50.58 to 93.33 post-intervention (p= <.001), and self-care management scores improved from baseline from 34.33 to 90.00 post intervention (p= <.001). Conclusion: Heart failure management is complex, and care should be individualized and grounded on an evidence-based heart failure educational program. This project demonstrated that health education that is language and literacy appropriate can have a significant impact on improving heart failure knowledge and self-care behaviors among Hispanic heart failure participants.