The purpose of this study is to collect blood specimens and determine the levels of natriuretic peptides in the blood in patients that are presenting with a suspicion of new onset or worsening symptoms of heart failure. Blood specimens collected during this study will be used to support expanded development of a blood test that can help physicians diagnose heart failure.

The blood test (Access BNP Assay) being developed will measure natriuretic peptides that are released into the blood when the heart muscle is stretched and working too hard. This information is being used to develop a better blood test(s).

1) You will be asked to provide a blood sample; up to two tubes for a total of up to 10mL (less than 2 teaspoons).
2) Samples will be processed and tested on the MeMed BV device.
3) You will be asked about your medical history, medications, and current illness, as well as demographic information (i.e. date of birth) and a contact phone number.
4) If eligible, it will be decided by chance, using a computer, if you will be put into one of two arms: the MeMed BV arm or the control arm. You have an equal chance of being placed in each group. You cannot choose your study group.
a. The MeMed BV arm: your clinician will receive the BV result, this will include a recommendation regarding antibiotic treatment
b. The control arm: your clinician will not receive the MeMed BV results and will treat you according to standard of care.
5) You will be contacted by a member of the study team at 28 (+/- 3) days after the day of consent to complete a short questionnaire regarding your current illness

1) You will be asked to provide a blood sample; up to two tubes for a total of up to 10mL (less than 2 teaspoons).
2) Samples will be processed and tested on the MeMed BV device.
3) You will be asked about your medical history, medications, and current illness, as well as demographic information (i.e. date of birth) and a contact phone number.
4) If eligible, it will be decided by chance, using a computer, if you will be put into one of two arms: the MeMed BV arm or the control arm. You have an equal chance of being placed in each group. You cannot choose your study group.
a. The MeMed BV arm: your clinician will receive the BV result, this will include a recommendation regarding antibiotic treatment
b. The control arm: your clinician will not receive the MeMed BV results and will treat you according to standard of care.
5) You will be contacted by a member of the study team at 28 (+/- 3) days after the day of consent to complete a short questionnaire regarding your current illness

Troponin I (cTnI) is a protein that is found in the heart muscle. When someone has a heart attack or other injury to the heart muscle, increased levels of cTnI can be measured in the blood and testing for cTnI in blood is used to help diagnose a heart attack and other heart conditions.

Troponin I (cTnI) is a protein that is found in the heart muscle. When someone has a heart attack or other injury to the heart muscle, increased levels of cTnI can be measured in the blood and testing for cTnI in blood is used to help diagnose a heart attack and other heart conditions.