Knowledge Assessment of Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy for Patients With Heart Failure

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to increase nursing knowledge and awareness of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) medication recommendations for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and to increase nursing confidence in providing education to this patient population. Background: Heart failure is among the top leading causes of morbidity and mortality nationwide, currently impacting more than 6 million Americans. GDMT is considered to be the gold standard of pharmacological therapy in an effort to reduce morbidity and mortality risk in patients with HFrEF. There is a significant knowledge deficit that exists surrounding GDMT medication regimens among patients and healthcare providers alike. Methods: This project was implemented at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona on a 46-bed cardiovascular progressive care unit among nursing staff. A pamphlet consisting of core GDMT medication recommendations was developed and delivered to participants along with an educational session outlining these recommendations. A 12-question survey was designed to evaluate participant knowledge level in GDMT medications and confidence level in providing patient education on GDMT medications to patients with HFrEF. Results: A total of 33 participants participated in this quality improvement project with a 100% response rate to both the pre-educational survey and post-educational survey. All participants reported an increase in knowledge regarding GDMT medication classes as well as an increase in confidence in their ability to educate patients with HFrEF on these medications. Positive feedback was received during project delivery along with the identification of the need for increased nursing education regarding complex GDMT medication regimens. Conclusions: This quality improvement project was essential in identifying nursing knowledge gaps and limitations when providing patient education to HFrEF patients on their GDMT regimens. Education regarding GDMT medication classes, their side effects, and indications for use in clinical practice can increase nursing knowledge and confidence when providing these medications to patients with HFrEF. Participants agreed on the need for further education on GDMT medication classes in order to improve patient education for patients with HFrEF and to potentially improve patient outcomes.