Medical knowledge, Patient Education
Heart Failure Action Plan
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If you have symptoms in the red zone, you need medical care right away.
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If you have symptoms in the yellow zone, you are having problems.
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If you have symptoms in the green zone, you are doing well.
Follow the plan that was created by you and your health care provider. Review your plan each time you visit your health care provider.
Red zone
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You have trouble breathing when resting.
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You have a dry cough that is getting worse.
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You have swelling or pain in your legs or abdomen that is getting worse.
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You suddenly gain more than 2–3 lb (0.9–1.4 kg) in 24 hours, or more than 5 lb (2.3 kg) in a week. This amount may be more or less depending on your condition.
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You have trouble staying awake or you feel confused.
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You have chest pain.
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You do not have an appetite.
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You pass out.
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You have worsening sadness or depression.
If you have any of these symptoms, call your local emergency services (911 in the U.S.) right away. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Yellow zone
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You have trouble breathing when you are active, or you need to sleep with your head raised on extra pillows to help you breathe.
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You have swelling in your legs or abdomen.
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You gain 2–3 lb (0.9–1.4 kg) in 24 hours, or 5 lb (2.3 kg) in a week. This amount may be more or less depending on your condition.
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You get tired easily.
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You have trouble sleeping.
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You have a dry cough.
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Contact your health care provider within the next day.
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Your health care provider may adjust your medicines.
Green zone
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You do not have shortness of breath.
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You have very little swelling or no new swelling.
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Your weight is stable (no gain or loss).
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You have a normal activity level.
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You do not have chest pain or any other new symptoms.
Follow these instructions at home:
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Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
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Weigh yourself daily. Your target weight is __________ lb (__________ kg).
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Call your health care provider if you gain more than __________ lb (__________ kg) in 24 hours, or more than __________ lb (__________ kg) in a week.
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Health care provider name: _____________________________________________________
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Health care provider phone number: _____________________________________________________
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Eat a heart-healthy diet. Work with a diet and nutrition specialist (dietitian) to create an eating plan that is best for you.
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Keep all follow-up visits. This is important.
Where to find more information
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American Heart Association:
Summary
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A heart failure action plan helps you understand what to do when you have symptoms of heart failure.
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Follow the action plan that was created by you and your health care provider.
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Get help right away if you have any symptoms in the red zone.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
