- Kayla Bos
- Spring 2026
Abstract
Abstract Heart Failure (HF) is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in the United States, with many patients being readmitted frequently. Readmissions can be linked to gaps in patient learning and understanding for self-management after they are discharged from the hospital. Patients may leave after discharge feeling overwhelmed by in-depth instructions, which can contribute to poor symptom recognition and delayed care if not sought out by patients. The purpose of this project was to develop an evidence-based, patient-friendly infographic to support patients and their HF self-management to strengthen discharge education on a telemetry unit. The project was informed by a review of current HF self-management literature, research on the effectiveness of the Teach-Back Method to improve comprehension, and American Heart Association guidelines. The infographic was designed to show simplified reminders for patients such as daily weights, medication adherence, diet habits, sodium and fluid restrictions, and early recognition of emergent symptoms. The goal for this project was to create a tool that patients can reference in their homes, reduce overload during discharge teaching, and promote self- care habits. This project highlights a deep need for accessible, concise education materials and also supports the use of Teach-Back strategies into routine HF discharging. Future steps include implementing the use of the infographic on a telemetry unit, evaluating patient understanding, and exploring the impact on patients and readmission rates. Keywords: heart failure, patient education, Teach-Back method, self-management, discharge teaching
