Audit of heart failure management amongst geriatric patients

Poster presentation: Aim: Congestive cardiac failure is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The National Heart Foundation and Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand detail best-practice heart failure (HF) management. (Krum et al. MJA, 2011; 194:8)We audited compliance with same within our geriatric department. Method: Initial audit included 31 HF patients admitted Dec 2012-April 2013. We assessed 10 best-practice HF management items (ECHO [≤1 year], blood count, electrolytes, thyroid function tests [TFT], chest X-ray, ECG, diagnosis confirmation, medications review, referral to community HF team, patient education), and employment of a 'best practice' HF checklist stamp. Results: Overall, rates of compliance were- ECHO: 58% (14/31), 92% HF medication review, TFT: 42% (10/31), chest X-ray and ECG: 96%, diagnosis confirmation: 40%, community team referral: 73%, documented education: 17%. None received all 10 best-practice interventions.