Using case management with clinical plans to improve patient outcomes.

A case-management approach using clinical plans was developed to enhance outcomes. Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) who were admitted to home care and case managed by nurses specially trained in cardiovascular nursing, case management, and the use of a clinical plan, had improved outcomes with fewer visits than patients with CHF managed with traditional care practices. Quality management and cost-effectiveness of patient care may be positively affected when using this approach.