Changes in heart failure medications in patients hospitalised and discharged

2006 | journal article; research paper. A publication of Göttingen

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​Changes in heart failure medications in patients hospitalised and discharged​
Scherer, M.; Sobek, C.; Wetzel, D.; Koschack, J.   & Kochen, M. M. ​ (2006) 
BioMed Central family practice7(69) pp. 1​-6​.​ DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2296-7-69 

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Authors
Scherer, Martin; Sobek, Cordula; Wetzel, Dirk; Koschack, Janka ; Kochen, Michael M. 
Abstract
Background: To date, evidence-based recommendations help doctors to manage patients with heart failure (HF). However, the implementation of these recommendations in primary care is still problematic as beneficial drugs are infrequently prescribed. The aim of the study was to determine whether admission to hospital increases usage of beneficial HF medication and if this usage is maintained directly after discharge. Methods: The study was conducted from November 2002 until January 2004. In 77 patients hospitalised with heart failure (HF), the medication prescribed by the referring general practitioner (GP) and drug treatment directed by the hospital physicians was documented. Information regarding the post-discharge (14 d) therapy by the GP was evaluated via a telephone interview. Ejection fraction values, comorbidity and specifics regarding diagnostic or therapeutic intervention were collected by chart review. Results: When compared to the referring GPs, hospital physicians prescribed more ACEinhibitors (58.4% vs. 76.6%; p = 0.001) and beta-blockers of proven efficacy in HF (metoprolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol; 58.4% vs. 81.8%). Aldosterone antagonists were also administered more frequently in the hospital setting compared to general practice (14.3% vs. 37.7%). The New York Heart Association classification for heart failure did not influence whether aldosterone antagonists were administered either in primary or secondary care. Fourteen days after discharge, there was no significant discontinuity in discharge medication.
Issue Date
2006
Journal
BioMed Central family practice 
Organization
Institut für Allgemeinmedizin 
Language
English

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