NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

Sample Answer for NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2 Included After Question

Cardiorespiratory pathologies are the most modifiable pathologies with lifestyle changes and careful management. Readmission rate for cardiovascular pathologies is higher than any other specialty and is usually related to medication noncompliance. The rise in hospital readmissions is a global concern, placing considerable burden on patients, treatment costs, and hospital resources (Hoang-Kim et al., 2020).  Vader et al., (2016), reported risk factors for post-discharge readmission or death in patients treated for acute heart failure, including male sex, non-use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), lower baseline sodium, non-white race, lower systolic blood pressure at discharge or day 7, increased length of stay, and depression. 

The rise in hospital readmissions is a global concern and is often used as a quality benchmark for health care systems. Hospital readmission is a considerable burden on the individual from a cost perspective and the related treatment costs and hospital resources tax the health system (Vader et al., 2016). This means that hospitals are not getting reimbursed by the government and/or insurance companies if the readmission is within the specified timeframe or for the already treated or related medical condition. 

There are many resources to support patients after admission. Assistance with understanding and managing medications prescribed post-discharge, including ensuring proper dosage, scheduling, and potential side effects. This might involve other family members or home health nurse, or maybe even discharging a patient to a assistive facility. Referrals to cardiac rehabilitation programs or exercise classes tailored to cardiac patients, aimed at improving cardiovascular health and overall fitness under supervised conditions. By far, swimming is the most encouraged physical activity for these patients and is very beneficial. Arrangement of follow-up appointments with cardiologists, primary care physicians, or other specialists to monitor recovery progress and address any concerns or complications before the patient is even discharged increases the chances of patients actually following through with the appointments. 

 

NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2
NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

References: 

Hoang-Kim, A., Parpia, C., Freitas, C., Austin, P. C., Ross, H. J., Wijeysundera, H. C., Tu, K., Mak, S., Farkouh, M. E., Sun, L. Y., Schull, M. J., Mason, R., Lee, D. S., & Rochon, P. A. (2020). Readmission rates following heart failure: a scoping review of sex and gender based considerations. BMC cardiovascular disorders, 20(1), 223. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12872-020-01422-3 

Vader, J. M., LaRue, S. J., Stevens, S. R., Mentz, R. J., DeVore, A. D., Lala, A., Groarke, J. D., AbouEzzeddine, O. F., Dunlay, S. M., Grodin, J. L., Dávila-Román, V. G., & de Las Fuentes, L. (2016). Timing and Causes of Readmission After Acute Heart Failure Hospitalization-Insights From the Heart Failure Network Trials. Journal of cardiac failure, 22(11), 875–883. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cardfail.2016.04.014 

 

A Sample Answer 2 For the Assignment: NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

Title: NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

Discharge planning for patients with chronic cardiorespiratory issues is crucial to ensure their ongoing care, independence, and to prevent readmission. Several discharge resources can support patients and contribute to their overall well-being. According to the text, the cardiorespiratory patient will have a variety of needs such as cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, or even the need of medical equipment (Johnson, 2022). Pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation programs can help patients improve their exercise tolerance, strengthen respiratory muscles, and enhance overall cardiovascular health. These programs are often supervised by healthcare professionals and may include exercise training, education, and counseling to guide the patients to be independent and self-manage their conditions (Johnson, 2022). Support groups can also offer practical tips for daily living and coping strategies. Joining local support groups can also be beneficial and provide patients with a sense of community, emotional support, and shared experiences, which can be beneficial for managing chronic conditions (Thompson et al., 2022).  

The financial implications of readmission underscore the importance of implementing strategies that enhance patient care outcomes while aligning with value-based reimbursement models (Upadhyay, et al., 2019). With the implementation of value-based care and penalties for excessive readmissions, hospitals are motivated to reduce avoidable hospitalizations. Medicare, for example, imposes penalties on hospitals with higher-than-expected readmission rates within 30 days of discharge for certain conditions, including heart failure, pneumonia, and COPD. Hospitals may see reduced reimbursement rates or face financial penalties for failing to meet readmission reduction targets (Upadhyay, et al., 2019). Additionally, readmissions can lead to prolonged periods of medical expenses and potential loss of income for patients and their families. 

 

References:  

Johnson, R. A. (2022). Cardiorespiratory complexities. In Grand Canyon University (Eds.), Pathophysiology: Clinical applications for client health. https://bibliu.com/app/#/view/books/1000000000590/epub/Chapter1.html 

Thompson, D.M., Booth, L., Moore, D. (2022). Peer support for people with chronic conditions: A systematic review of reviews. BMC Health Serv Res 22, 427.  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-022-07816-7 

Upadhyay, S., Stephenson, A. L., & Smith, D. G. (2019). Readmission rates and their impact on hospital financial performance: A study of Washington hospitals. Inquiry: A Journal of Medical Care Organization, Provision and Financing, 56, 46958019860386. https://doi.org/10.1177/0046958019860386 

A Sample Answer 3 For the Assignment: NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

Title: NRS 455 Topic 1 DQ 2

Discharge planning for patients with chronic cardiorespiratory issues is crucial to ensure continuity of care, support patient independence, and minimize the risk of readmission. Several resources are available to facilitate successful transitions from hospital to home: 

  1. Home Health Services: Patients may benefit from home health services, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy(AlHabeeb, 2022). These services help patients manage their chronic conditions, adhere to treatment plans, and regain functional independence in the comfort of their homes. 
  1. Disease Management Programs: Many hospitals offer disease management programs tailored to patients with chronic cardiorespiratory issues. These programs provide education, support, and monitoring to help patients understand their conditions, manage symptoms, and prevent exacerbations (AlHabeeb, 2022). 
  1. Medication Management: Pharmacist-led medication reconciliation and education initiatives can help patients understand their medication regimens, adhere to prescribed treatments, and prevent adverse drug events (AlHabeeb, 2022). Prescription delivery services and medication adherence tools may also support medication management at home. 
  1. Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Telehealth services and remote monitoring devices enable healthcare providers to remotely assess patients’ vital signs, symptoms, and disease progression (AlHabeeb, 2022). These technologies allow for timely interventions, adjustments to treatment plans, and early detection of potential complications. 
  1. Community Resources: Patients may benefit from community-based resources, such as support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, nutritional counseling services, and transportation assistance (AlHabeeb, 2022). These resources help patients navigate their healthcare needs and address social determinants of health that may impact their well-being. 

Readmission of patients with chronic cardiorespiratory issues can have significant financial implications for hospitals due to penalties imposed by payers, such as Medicare, under the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP). Hospitals with higher-than-expected readmission rates for certain conditions, including heart failure, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may face reductions in Medicare reimbursements (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, n.d.). 

From the patient’s perspective, readmission can have several negative implications. It may disrupt their recovery process, result in additional healthcare expenses, and contribute to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and decreased confidence in their ability to manage their conditions. Readmission may also indicate gaps in care coordination, inadequate discharge planning, or unaddressed social determinants of health, further complicating the patient’s healthcare journey. 

In conclusion, discharge resources play a critical role in supporting patients with chronic cardiorespiratory issues post-hospitalization, promoting independence, and reducing the risk of readmission. Effective discharge planning, utilization of community resources, and proactive management of chronic conditions are essential to improving patient outcomes and minimizing healthcare costs. Additionally, reducing readmission rates is imperative for hospitals to avoid financial penalties and uphold quality standards of care. 

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