What is indicated by HFrEF?

HFrEF refers to “Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction.” This terminology is used to describe a specific type of heart failure where the heart's left ventricle does not pump effectively, leading to a lower than normal ejection fraction (EF). In patients with HFrEF, the ejection fraction is typically defined as less than 40%. This reduction in cardiac output is indicative of systolic dysfunction, where the heart muscle is weakened and unable to contract forcefully enough to maintain adequate blood circulation throughout the body.

Understanding HFrEF is crucial in cardiovascular nursing as it directly influences treatment strategies, management plans, and patient education. Accurate recognition and classification of heart failure types allow healthcare professionals to tailor interventions more effectively, affecting medication choices, lifestyle recommendations, and monitoring approaches for achieving optimal patient outcomes.