Heart Failure Readmissions: A Deep Dive into Patient Demographics, Comorbidities, and Systemic Challenges

Abstract

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of hospital readmissions, presenting significant challenges in healthcare. Comorbid conditions like diabetes and hypertension are prevalent among HF patients and may complicate disease management. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies. Objective: This study aims to analyze the factors contributing to HF readmissions, focusing on patient demographics, comorbidities, and systemic healthcare challenges. Methods: A comprehensive, retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at a tertiary care cardiac center. The study included 1,000 patients with a documented history of HF and instances of hospital readmissions. Patient selection was based on age (≥18 years), a diagnosis of HF, and readmission within six months post-discharge. Exclusion criteria included planned readmissions for elective procedures and cognitive impairments impeding consent. Data collection encompassed patient demographics, clinical history, comorbidity details, initial hospitalization, and readmission information. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze and summarize the data. Results: The cohort comprised 80% male (n=800) and 20% female (n=200) with a mean age of 58 years. The median hospital stay was 6 days. Comorbidities included diabetes (78%, n=780) and hypertension (56%, n=560). The primary cause of HF was ischemic cardiomyopathy (82%, n=820). The leading reasons for readmission were lack of counseling (42%, n=420), underdosage of medication (16%, n=160), and non-compliance to medication (13%, n=130). Other factors included volume overload (11%, n=110), secondary hypertensive failure (9%, n=90), infections (6%, n=60), anemia (2%, n=20), and progressive renal failure (1%, n=10). Conclusion: The study highlights the complexity of managing HF, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches addressing patient education, medication management, and comorbidity control. Improved patient counseling and adherence to treatment regimens could significantly reduce HF readmissions.