Evaluating the Implementation of an Evidence-Based Discharge Checklist on 15-Day Hospital Re-admissions for Heart Failure in a VA Setting

This doctoral project presented the results and analysis aimed at reducing 15-day hospital re-admissions for veteran patients with congestive heart failure by implementing an evidence-based discharge checklist at the G.V. Sonny Montgomery VA Medical Center. Heart failure remains a leading cause of hospitalization and re-admissions among veterans, contributing to increased mortality rates. The doctoral project was guided by a research question addressing whether an evidence-based checklist could effectively reduce 15-day re-admissions compared to no checklist. A retrospective analysis of patients aged 50 and older hospitalized between August 5, 2024, and August 19, 2024, was conducted. The interdisciplinary team utilized the checklist, focusing on medication reconciliation, dietary education, symptom management, and follow-up care coordination. Results showed a decrease in re-admission rates from 25% to 21% within a four-week period, alongside improved adherence to heart failure treatments, particularly with SGLT-2 inhibitors. The findings highlight the effectiveness of the checklist in improving patient outcomes and underscore the need for ongoing interventions to further reduce re-admissions.