Which of the following is a consequence of poor self-care in heart failure patients?

In the context of heart failure, poor self-care can significantly lead to increased healthcare costs. When patients do not effectively manage their condition — such as by neglecting dietary restrictions, failing to adhere to medication regimens, or not engaging in necessary monitoring of their symptoms — this often results in exacerbations of heart failure. As a result, these patients may experience more frequent hospitalizations or emergency department visits due to complications.

Additionally, the financial burden of increased healthcare utilization can be substantial, involving costs associated with hospital stays, medical treatments, outpatient visits, and sometimes even rehabilitation services. Thus, the link between poor self-care and skyrocketing healthcare costs is well established in the management of heart failure.

The other options, such as improved quality of life and higher levels of physical activity, typically arise from effective self-care practices. Likewise, longer hospital stays for minor issues usually indicate a lack of effective management, further reinforcing the negative consequences associated with poor self-care.