New infusion service at Mount Sinai Hospital reduces heart failure admissions

Furosemide infusion therapy is a medication that helps the body eliminate excess fluid and salt through urination. In heart failure patients, this treatment relieves fluid overload, a condition that occurs when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. This can lead to swelling, shortness of breath and fatigue. By removing excess fluid, furosemide reduces strain on the heart and helps prevent further decline of heart function.

Furosemide infusion therapy is a medication that helps the body eliminate excess fluid and salt through urination. In heart failure patients, this treatment relieves fluid overload, a condition that occurs when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. This can lead to swelling, shortness of breath and fatigue. By removing excess fluid, furosemide reduces strain on the heart and helps prevent further decline of heart function.

Previously, the Heart Function Clinic’s patients experiencing fluid overload may have required a visit to the Emergency Department for diuresis and possible admission. Since the introduction of the infusion service, patients can receive timely interventions directly in the outpatient clinic.

“Infusion therapy using furosemide allows for improved care coordination” said cardiologist Dr. Darshan Brahmbhatt, who introduced the process with Ann Vo, Clinical Nurse Specialist in the ambulatory cardiology clinic. “Before this service was available at Mount Sinai, patients who experienced decompensated heart failure were typically directed to the Emergency Department.” 

 “Our patients are able to follow this new process with ease, scheduling their infusions around other appointments at the clinic,” Ann mentioned. “This approach has led to improvements in patient care and accessibility, giving patients a better care experience.”

The team at the Heart Function Clinic is keen to make this service available to heart failure patients who need symptoms relief and to help reduce their hospitalization. “This initiative represents a major step forward in how we care for our heart failure patients. The team has worked diligently to introduce infusion therapy appointments, with our first patient receiving an infusion in July 2025” adds Bria Dexter, Director, Ambulatory Services, Urgent and Critical Care.

This new infusion therapy service at Mount Sinai’s Heart Function Clinic is helping patients access the right care, where they need it. The team at the clinic is dedicated to continued better health care outcomes and a shared commitment to high-quality compassionate care.