Consensus and development of document for management of stabilized acute decompensated heart failure with reduced...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Clinical Practice Guidelines
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Adherence to guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) is crucial for reducing mortality and readmission rates in heart failure (HF).
• Checklists are effective tools for ensuring GDMT adherence.
• A specific, validated, and easy-to-use checklist for Indian patients with stabilized acute decompensated heart failure with reduced ejection fraction is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a consensus-based, India-specific checklist for managing stabilized acute decompensated heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
• To ensure adherence to GDMT through a practical and validated tool.

Main Methods:

• A consensus document was developed by 25 Cardiology Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from India.
• Discussions involved literature review, current evidence, international guidelines, and practical experiences.
• Data was synthesized through two national and four regional meetings.

Main Results:

• Recommendations cover heart failure management, treatment optimization, and patient education.
• The checklist is designed for completion at four key time points: ICU to ward transition, discharge, first follow-up, and subsequent follow-ups.
• Responsibility for checklist completion can be delegated by the consultant or treating physician to junior residents or trained nurses.

Conclusions:

• The developed checklist will enhance GDMT adherence and simplify care transitions for heart failure patients across India.
• It is recommended for adoption in both public and private hospitals.
• Hospital administrations should implement policies to ensure checklist integration into patient files and encourage diligent completion during follow-up visits.