Prognostic Significance of 1-Month Post-discharge BNP in Identifying Patients at High Risk of Mortality and Readmission after Decompensated Heart Failure

Background: The measurement of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels after hospital discharge is a key indicator for evaluating prognosis in patients with decompensated heart failure. Monitoring BNP levels is essential for risk stratification because they correlate with higher mortality and hospital readmission rates in this patient group. Methods: This study followed a prospective cohort of 50 patients who had been hospitalized for decompensated heart failure and were discharged from Darbhanga Medical College & Hospital. BNP levels were measured one month after discharge. The study also tracked mortality and readmission rates over one year, employing Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models for statistical assessment. Results: Over the one-year observation period, 24% of the participants passed away, and 44% were readmitted for heart failure complications. Patients with BNP levels exceeding 300 pg/mL at one month post-discharge were at a significantly greater risk of dying (33% vs. 12%, p = 0.04) and being readmitted (55% vs. 30%, p = 0.02) than those with lower levels. High BNP levels (>300 pg/mL) were confirmed as independent predictors of both mortality (Hazard Ratio [HR], 2.8; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.2-6.5; p = 0.02) and readmission (HR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.1-4.8; p = 0.03). Conclusion: The study underscores the significance of monitoring BNP levels in identifying patients at an increased risk of mortality and readmission following hospitalization for decompensated heart failure. Elevated BNP levels (>300 pg/mL) serve as a crucial prognostic tool for guiding risk assessment and management. Recommendations: To improve outcomes for patients discharged after decompensated heart failure episodes, it is recommended to include BNP level assessments in their post-discharge care plans. This approach facilitates the early identification of patients at high risk of adverse outcomes, enabling timely and targeted interventions. ; Background: The measurement of B-type natriuretic ...