Heart Failure

Common antibiotic linked to risk of sudden death, study finds

McKnight's Staff May 21, 2012

An antibiotic frequently used to treat pneumonia and bronchitis is linked to a higher risk of sudden death in adults, particularly those with heart conditions, a new study reveals.

Heart failure readmission rates tied to regional socioeconomic factors, research shows

McKnight's Staff May 18, 2012

Socioeconomic differences and factors such as the availability of physicians have a bigger impact on readmission rates for heart failure than a provider's performance, a new study asserts.

No decrease for heart failure mortality rates after pharmacist visit, study says

November 16, 2011

Consultations with pharmacists, in collaboration with physicians in community-based settings, did not lower mortality and hospitalization rates of heart failure patients, new research finds.

Nursing homes and hospitals work together to lower readmission rates

October 25, 2011

Techniques such as screening for sepsis and a standardized discharge form have helped to lower the rate of rehospitalized nursing home patients in Florida.

Study: Heart failure hospitalizations dropped significantly over 10 years

October 19, 2011

The likelihood of being hospitalized for heart failure was roughly 30% less in 2008 than 1998, a new study revealed.

Study: Type of insurance tied to heart failure outcomes

September 21, 2011

Heart failure patients who are Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries — or who are uninsured — are less likely to receive essential treatments and tend to be hospitalized for longer periods of time than those who are privately insured, a new study finds.

Transitional care programs lower hospital readmission rates, two studies show

July 27, 2011

Seniors who leave hospitals and are placed in transitional care programs are far less likely to be return, two new studies assert. The authors cite both health and cost benefits of these post-acute options.

Tai chi improves mood and quality of life in heart failure patients, report says

April 27, 2011

Tai chi exercises might be able to help improve heart failure patients' quality of life, mood and confidence, new research finds.

Study: Elderly heart failure patients discharged to nursing homes face higher risks

April 04, 2011

Elderly heart failure patients who need skilled nursing care after discharge from the hospital face a higher risk of poor outcomes and even death, according to the American Heart Association.

Mixed bag for heart failure patients: less time in hospital but bigger risks at home

June 03, 2010

First the good news: Medicare beneficiaries are experiencing shorter hospital stays and lower rates of in-hospital deaths after suffering heart failure. Now the not-so-good news: Out-of-hospital deaths and readmission rates are rising, according to a new study. Discharges to nursing homes also are increasing.