Congestive Heart Failure Weight Study

Time of Day and Accurate Weights for Patients With Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Early morning weights to monitor CHF patient's fluid status is common practice but there is a lack of evidence that this is the best practice. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in net weight gain or loss for hospitalized patients with CHF who are weighed in the evening instead of early morning.

This is a quasi-experimental pilot study with prospective cohort design. Study subjects will be weighed in the early morning and then again in the evening for a minimum of three days. Analysis will be accomplished on data by analysis within-subjects data utilizing the paired t test. Other data to be collected includes dates of hospitalization, demographics, dose and timing of medications, lab results and documentation of comorbid conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-85 years old
• Admitted to hospital with a primary diagnosis of heart failure or fluid overload
• Ambulatory with a medical order to be out of bed
• Able to stand on a scale
• Have no problems with balance

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a primary diagnosis other than heart failure or fluid overload
• Patients diagnosed with renal failure
• Non-English speaking
• Unable to follow directions or consent due to cognitive impairment
• Medical order for bed rest
• Involved in another study