Abstract

Heart failure not only affects the heart but also many other systems within the human body. There are approximately 6.5 million people diagnosed with heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction each year. Of these 6.5 million, roughly thirty percent will have readmission to the hospital or die within one year of diagnosis (Mathews et al., 2022). While the only cure for heart failure is a heart transplant, it is best practice to manage the disease and further prevent the progression and complications associated with heart failure. The researchers conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate primary care adherence to the 2022 guideline-directed management therapy for patients with heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction. The literature reviewed suggests that multiple factors contribute to primary care providers' adherence to guidelines. These factors include but are not limited to, a lack of time during clinical visits, limited laboratory use, inadequate knowledge, and the inability of patients to adhere to frequent lab draws. To effectively treat and educate patients with heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction, providers must remain current on the latest and most accurate guidelines available, based on the most current research, and implement those guidelines. Providers must also be knowledgeable of the contraindications proposed by the medications used within the 2022 guidelines. Some of these contraindications are but are not limited to, increased serum creatinine levels and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors. Beta Blockers (BBs) are contraindicated for patients with bradycardia. Sacubitril-valsartan is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema. This study aimed to evaluate the adherence of primary care providers to the 2022 guideline-directed management therapy for heart failure patients with a reduced ejection fraction within the state of Mississippi. Data was collected by a convenience questionnaire (n=) from primary care providers within the state of Mississippi. The questionnaire covered the demographics of the providers, their knowledge of the guidelines, whether they followed them, and any barriers preventing them from following the guidelines. The questionnaire was placed on social media or emailed to providers to complete at their convenience. Participation in this study was voluntary. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The information gathered provided researchers with facts, including the demographics of providers, their knowledge and use of the guidelines, and the barriers preventing their use. Using the Nola Penders Health Promotion Model, the researchers enhanced their understanding of promoting well-being, encouraging patients to be active in their health, and avoiding preventable diseases with the guidance of nurses and care providers. Managing heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction from a multisystemic approach is crucial for preventing complications that affect multiple body systems.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Degree Date

2025

First Advisor

Dr. Sueanne Davidson

Document Type

Thesis

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