The TeMP_cardio Model for the district management of heart failure patients: a feasibility study for the implementation of the family nurse

The TeMP_cardio Model for the district management of heart failure patients: a feasibility study for the implementation of the family nurse. Introduction: The need to enhance primary health nursing care and chronic disease management requires the development of complex and feasible models in local contexts. Aim: To test the feasibility of a complex care model, based on the introduction of the family and community nurse for patients with stable heart failure and their caregivers. Methods: A pre-post six-month feasibility study was conducted in 2021-2022 in the Autonomous Province of Trento. Patients with stable heart failure able to access services were taken in charge with a multidisciplinary model, with the nurse as care manager, and technological and telemonitoring support. Results: 26 patients out of 137 were included and nine of their caregivers. Ten participants accepted to use the mobile app. Twenty-three patients and seven caregivers completed the study, and the app was used regularly by five participants. Self-care skills improved in patients, mostly in self-monitoring, less in caregivers. One access to the emergency department for heart failure exacerbation was detected. Conclusions: The model was evaluated feasible to retain patients, with the need to build effective strategies for the recruitment, and the regular use of telemonitoring tools.