Heart Failure: assessment and investigations (Guidelines)

Warning

Audience

  • Highland HSCP
  • Primary and Secondary Care 

Pathway

 

Clinical history

The following are associated with an increased risk of heart failure:-

  • Angina/myocardial infarction/ ischaemic heart disease
  • Arrhythmias
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Valvular disease/murmur
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Medication review – check for contraindications

Clinical examination

  • Heart rate and rhythm
  • Blood pressure
  • Raised jugular venous pressure
  • Murmur – added 3rd heart sound
  • Lung crepitations
  • Oedema
  • Ascities
  • Hepatomegaly

Abbreviations

Abbreviation Meaning
ECG Electrocardiogram
NTproBNP Pro B-type Natriuretic Peptide
U+Es Urea and electrolytes
LFTs Liver function tests
TFTs Thyroid function tests

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 04/10/2023

Next review date: 31/10/2026

Author(s): Cardiology .

Version: 3

Approved By: TAMSG of the ADTC

Reviewer name(s): Prof Stephen Leslie, Consultant Cardiologist.

Document Id: TAM129

Related resources

Further information for Health Care Professionals

(Scroll down to see all references)

References

Further information for Patients

Self-management information