B-type natriuretic peptide rapid assay: a diagnostic test for heart failure

Hospitals are constantly besieged with congestive heart failure admissions. Current studies show that the advent of the B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) rapid assay as a quick and easy blood test is beneficial to nurses in confirming the diagnosis of heart failure. B-type natriuretic peptide is a neurohormone produced by the failing heart in response to increased volume and cardiac overload. The BNP rapid assay measures the presence of BNP levels present in the circulating bloodstream to confirm the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. It is a simple blood test that can be done at the bedside or at the clinic so it is a valid point-of-care modality. Elevated levels suggest severity of heart failure and possibility of sudden death. This article focuses on the description of the diagnostic performance of the BNP rapid assay, its clinical dimensions, and its implications to nursing practice and collaborative practice models.