The Use of the B-type Natriuretic Peptide at Trident Hospital
Shay Sabom, M.D., Trident Family Medicine Residency Program

Introduction: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a quick and easy test, that is clinically useful in the detection of heart failure exacerbations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of the BNP as a triage tool for patients with heart failure in the Trident emergency department (ED).
Methods: A retrospective chart review evaluated 100 patients presenting to the Trident ED from October 2003 to February 2004 who had at least one BNP level drawn by the ED physician. Data collected included the chief complaint, age, admitting diagnosis, discharge diagnosis, BNP level, disposition, and chest X ray findings.
Results: A Chi square analysis will be performed to compare patients with BNP values less than and greater than 100, to determine if there is a significant difference in their respective dispositions. Other analysis will include comparisons of admission and disposition diagnoses.
Conclusion: BNP testing is increasingly used in the setting of heart failure, and studies are necessary to determine the role of BNP in triaging these patients.