Patient Education
A heart failure education booklet
was developed for use across the
continuum of care. It included information
about the causes of fluid
retention, dietary intervention (such
as salt restriction), the need for continued
monitoring of residents’
weight, and the purposes of their
medications. The booklet provided a
basis for education in the long-term
care facility.
Dietary and nursing staff developed
a strategy for education. Stable
assisted living residents received education
including how to weigh themselves
and follow their weight as a
sign of worsening of their illness.
Those admitted to the nursing home
following hospitalization were targeted
for education as part of the
plan for discharge