Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science  2016;18(4):247-256

doi:10.7586/jkbns.2016.18.4.247

Factors Related to N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide as a Biomarker for Heart Failure.

Hyeong Suk LEE 1 ; Mona CHOI ; Eui Geum OH

Affiliations

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Keywords

Heart failure; Biomarkers; Symptom assessment

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the relationships between the N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels with the sociodemographic and clinical factors, self-care behaviors, and the physical symptom experiences in patients with heart failure. METHODS: This cross-sectional study utilized a convenience sample of adult outpatients and inpatients who attended a cardiology department in a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Korea. The data from 154 patients with heart failure were collected using a questionnaire, and their clinical data were extracted from their electronic medical records. RESULTS: Compared with the patients with high NT-proBNP levels, those with low NT-proBNP levels had significantly lower physical symptom experiences scores. Patients with low- and mid-NT-proBNP levels were more likely to be employed compared with those with high NT-proBNP levels. Patients with low NT-proBNP levels had higher left ventricular ejection fractions, and were less likely to have arrhythmias and comorbidities. CONCLUSION: The results from this study showed that patients with more severe heart failure had higher physical symptom experiences scores; hence, individualizing treatment approaches based on heart failure severity is necessary.