A comparison of Gordon's functional health patterns model and standard nursing care in symptomatic heart failure patients: A randomized controlled trial

Heart failure (HF) is associated with poor quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate effect of application of Gordon's functional health pattern (FHP) model in nursing care of symptomatic HF patients on quality of life, morbidity and mortality in the post-discharge 30-day. This is a prospective randomized controlled study conducted in a single center. Experimental group received nursing care planned in accordance with Gordon's FHP model. 60 control and 60 experimental HF patients were included in the study. In the control group nursing care was given according to the standard protocol of the hospital whereas in the experimental group nursing care was given in accordance with Gordon's FHP model. Patients in both groups were followed up after discharge at 30th day. Mean Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire score improved significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group at 30th day (40.2 ± 23.5 vs 62.3 ± 22.9 respectively, p = 0.001). Seven patients (11.7%) in the experimental group and 17 patients (28.3%) in the control group were readmitted in the post discharge 30-day (p = 0.02). Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis revealed significant difference in 30-day event free survival rates between groups (log-rank p = 0.31). Application of Gordon's FHP model in the nursing care of HF patients was associated with significantly improved quality of life, and reduced hospital readmission rates at 30th day. This was the only independent predictor of 30-day event free survival. •Application of Gordon's FHP model in the nursing care of HF patients was associated with significantly improved quality of life.•Application of this model reduced hospital readmission rates at 30th day.•Application of this model was associated with decreased emergency room visit rates and increased 30-day overall survival.•Application of this model was associated with significant 30-day event free survival.•This was the only independent predictor of 30-day event free survival.