Heart Failure Self-care Behaviour Scale Research Articles

Mediating Effects of Depressive Symptoms and Uncertainty on Physical Symptoms and Self-Care in Korean Older Men With Heart Failure.

Heart failure is prevalent among aging populations. Given the increasing median age in many countries, sustainably improving self-care behaviors in heart failure patients is crucial. Physical symptoms predict self-care in patients with heart failure, whereas psychological factors such as depressive symptoms and uncertainty negatively affect disease management efficacy. The mediating and indirect effects of depressive symptoms and disease uncertainty regarding the relationship between physical symptoms and self-care behaviors were examined in older South Korean men with heart failure. A descriptive correlational survey design was used to collect data from 185 older men with heart failure. Data were obtained from medical records and self-reported questionnaires addressing physical symptoms, depressive symptoms severity (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), illness uncertainty (Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale-Community Form), and self-care behaviors (European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale). The mediating effects of depressive symptoms and disease uncertainty were assessed using a bootstrapping method via PROCESS Model 4, a parallel mediation model, in SPSS. The mean age of the participants was 77.41 ( SD = 5.35) years. Half (50.8%) had a diagnosis of New York Heart Association Class II heart failure, and 21.6% had a diagnosis of New York Heart Association Class III/IV heart failure. Self-care behaviors were found to correlate negatively with physical symptoms, depressive symptoms, and uncertainty. Depressive symptoms ( B = -0.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-0.18, -0.01]) and uncertainty ( B = -0.05, 95% CI [-0.09, -0.01]) were found to mediate the relationship between physical symptoms and self-care behaviors. The findings reveal depressive symptoms and disease uncertainty significantly mediate the relationship between physical symptoms and self-care behaviors in older South Korean men with heart failure. In light of this, cardiovascular nurses should join in targeted educational initiatives tailored to address the unique needs of older men with heart failure that consider psychological factors such as depressive symptoms and uncertainty as well as physical symptom management.

Post-Discharge Self-Care Confidence and Performance Levels in Hospitalized Heart Failure Patients

BackgroundMultidisciplinary self-care education plays a critical role in ensuring the high-quality transitional care of hospitalized heart failure (HF) patients. However, whether confidence on self-care during their index hospitalization would influence their post-discharge self-care performance and long-term outcomes remains uncertain. MethodsWe conducted an assessment of 100 consecutive HF patients who completed self-care questionnaires both during their hospitalization and one year after discharge. Within these hospitalized HF patients, self-care confidence was assessed immediately after completing their pre-discharge educational program. One year after the index hospitalization, we evaluated self-care performance using European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify determinants of poor self-care behavior 1-year after the hospitalization. Additionally, the Cox proportional hazards model with adjustment for Seattle Heart Failure Model was applied to assess their association with 2-year mortality and readmission risk. ResultsThe enrolled patients predominantly had HF with reduced ejection fraction (43.0%), and approximately half of the patients had experienced a previous HF hospitalization (47.0%). The three worst-performing aspects of post-discharge self-care behavior (among the 12 items) were appropriate consultation for fatigue (40.0%), weight gain (52.0%), and application of regular exercise (57.0%). After adjustment, low self-care confidence during the index hospitalization were associated with poor post-discharge self-care performance (OR: 1.11, CI: 1.00–1.21). Poor post-discharge self-care behavior was not associated with a worse prognosis over a 2-year follow-up (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.82, CI: 0.85–3.86); however, the association was significant in patients with reduced ejection fraction (HR: 4.04, CI: 1.17–13.89) and previous HF hospitalization (HR: 3.66, CI: 1.46–9.13). ConclusionsPost-discharge self-care performance was associated with self-care confidence during the index HF hospitalization. Effective measures that improve pre-discharge confidence levels in self-care should be considered to enhance the quality of transitional care.

The trajectory of self-care over a 12-month period in patients with heart failure, comparing those with consistently good and poor self-care

Abstract Background Self-care behaviour plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for patients with heart failure (HF) and reducing mortality and morbidity rates, but many patients struggle with suboptimal self-care behaviours. It is crucial to understand the factors influencing long-term self-care management. Purpose To assess the trajectory of self-care over a 12-month period and assess differences between patients who have constantly good self-care over a 12-month period compared to constantly poor self-care. Method This study use data from a randomised controlled intervention study, called the HF-Wii study. We included patients who had complete data on self-care during on baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. Self-care was measured with the European Heart Failure Self-care Behaviour scale (EHFSBs). A threshold score of equal or higher than 70 was used to define self-care behaviour as good and a score lower than 70 as poor self-care. Based on literature, the following characteristics (collected from questionnaires and medical records at baseline) were considered in the analysis: age, sex, marital status, education, history of myocardial infarction, duration of HF, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, LVEF, comorbidity. Other factors assessed were Health-related Quality of Life (HrQoL, Minnesota living with HF questionnaire), depressive symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale), cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), sleep (Minimal Insomnia Symptom Scale) and level of HF knowledge (Dutch HF knowledge scale). Logistic regression was performed with backwards elimination of the factors considered associated with the differences between patients who have constantly good self-care at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months compared to constantly poor self-care. Results In total, 407 patients were included in this study. At baseline, the mean self-care was 65±21, with 41% of the patients (n=245) performing good self-care. In total, 126 patients had a constantly good self-care over 12 month (31%), 120 patients had a constantly bad self-care over 12 months (30%) and 161 (39%) fluctuated in their self-care (Figure). In the multivariate analysis, patients that had continuously good self-care over 12-months were of older age (68±10 vs. 64±12, odds ratio (OR) 1.061, P-value<0.001), had higher HF knowledge (score 13±2 vs. 12±2, OR 1.439, P-value<0.001) and had higher HrQoL (score 28±20 vs 36±22, OR 0.984, P-value=0.022). compared to patients with consistently poor self-care. The variance was explained by 20%. Conclusion Younger patients with HF tend to struggle with consistent self-care over a year, underscoring the necessity for tailored interventions for this group. Conversely, patients with greater HF knowledge and higher HrQoL maintained good self-care habits.

Association between self-care behaviour and multiple frailty domains in older patients with heart failure

Abstract Background/Introduction Heart failure (HF) self-care is important for the effective management of HF, reducing clinical events such as all-cause mortality and hospitalizations. HF self-care behaviours encompass comply with a regimen involving medication, diet, and exercise, symptom monitoring, and seeking assistance when symptoms occur. Frailty, prevalent among older patients with HF, involves physical, social, and cognitive domains. Identified factors influencing self-care behaviours in patients with HF include age, social support, and knowledge of the condition. Despite research on the association between self-care behaviours and frailty, there is a notable gap in studies that explore the relationship between self-care behaviour and multiple domains of frailty, particularly with adjustments for clinical characteristics. Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the association between self-care behaviour and multiple domains of frailty in older patients with HF. Methods The study included 182 patients with HF who were aged 65 years or older. Self-care behaviour was assessed 5 months after their discharge using the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behaviour Scale (EHFScBS), a self-report questionnaire. Frailty was assessed using the revised Japanese version of the Cardiovascular Health Study criteria (J-CHS) for physical frailty, and using Makizako’s five items for social frailty, and using Mini-Cog for cognitive decline. We used multiple regression analysis to assess the association between self-care score and multiple frailty domains and the number of frailty domains. The adjusted model was constructed based on age, gender, body mass index, New York Heart Association Classification, left ventricular ejection fraction, log-transformed B-type natriuretic peptide, estimated glomerular filtration rate and history of HF. In addition, we used multiple regression analysis to assess the association between the EHFScBS subitems score complying with regimen, asking for help, and adapting activities and multiple frailty domains and the number of frailty domains. Results According to the results of a multiple regression analysis, poor self-care behaviour was significantly associated with physical and social frailty and the number of frailty domains (all p < 0.05), even after adjusting for clinical characteristics. Poor complying with regimen was also significantly associated with physical and social frailty and the number of frailty domains (all p < 0.05). Poor asking for help was significantly associated with social frailty and the number of frailty domains (all p < 0.05). Conclusion The study indicates that poor self-care behaviour is linked to physical and social frailty, in addition to the cumulative number of frailty domains in older patients with HF, even when clinical characteristics are taken into consideration. This underscores the importance of factoring in the frailty status when guiding patients with HF in disease management.

Health-related quality of life and self-care in heart failure patients under telecare-insights from the randomized, prospective, controlled AMULET trial.

The growing population of heart failure (HF) patients places a burden on the healthcare system. Patient-centered outcomes such as health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and self-care behaviors are key elements of modern HF management programs. Thus, optimized strategies to improve these outcomes are sought. To assess the effects of a new model of medical telecare on HRQoL and self-care in patients with HF (the AMULET study). The study was prospective, randomized, open-label, and controlled with two parallel groups: telecare and standard care. In the telecare group, HF nurses performed patient clinical assessments with telemedical support by a cardiologist and provided education focused on the prevention of HF exacerbation. In the standard care group, patients were followed according to standard practices in the existing healthcare system. At the baseline and at 12 months, HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLwHF). The level of self-care was assessed with the 12-item standardized European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale (EHFScBS-12). In the overall study group, 79% of the subjects were male, the mean age was 67 ± 14 years, and 59% of the subjects were older than 65 years of age. The majority of the subjects (70%) had a left ventricular ejection fraction below 40%. After 12 months, statistically significant increases in physical component of the SF-36 (43.3 vs. 47.4 for telecare vs. 43.4 vs. 46.6 for standard care) and mental component of SF-36 (58.4 vs. 62 for telecare vs. 60.4 vs. 64.2 for standard care) were noted, with no intergroup differences. However, patients receiving telecare showed improvement in specific domains, such as physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health. There was a significant decrease in MLwHF (29 vs. 35.0; lower is better) at follow-up for both groups. Telecare patients had a statistically significant decrease in EHFScBS-12 (lower is better) at 12 months. AMULET outpatient telecare, which is based on nurse-led non-invasive assessments supported by specialist teleconsultations, improved the HRQoL and self-care of HF patients after an episode of acute HF.

Differential impacts of self-care behavior on clinical outcomes in patients with and without recent heart failure hospitalization

BackgroundAlthough clinical guidelines recommend self-care assessment for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), its prognostic significance remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the prognostic significance of self-care behavior on mortality between patients with and without a history of recent hospitalization for heart failure (HF). MethodsWe analyzed consecutive 1907 CHF patients from a Japanese multicenter registry (January 2020–June 2023) using the 9-item European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale (EHFScBS-9) at enrolment. Suboptimal self-care behavior was defined as a score < 70 on the EHFScBS-9. Patients were divided into recent (within 30 days post-discharge, n = 664) and no recent hospitalization for HF groups (n = 1263), respectively. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause death and rehospitalization for HF. ResultsDuring a median follow-up period of 427 (interquartile range 273–630) days, the primary outcome occurred in 100 patients. Patients with suboptimal self-care behavior exhibited a higher incidence of the primary outcome in the recent hospitalization for HF group (p = 0.020) but not in the no recent hospitalization for HF group (P = 0.16). Multivariable regressions showed suboptimal self-care behavior was independently associated with the primary outcome in the recent hospitalization for HF group with a significant interaction (P = 0.029). ConclusionIn patients recently hospitalized for HF, but not in those without a recent hospitalization history for HF, suboptimal self-care behavior was associated with adverse events. This indicates the importance of self-care education for these patients.

Propelling Nurse-Led Structured Intervention to Enhance Self-Care among Patients with Chronic Heart Failure (PROACT-HF): A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial Study Protocol.

Heart Failure (HF) is a common chronic disease that has a high readmission rate and is associated with worsening symptoms and major financial impacts. Disease management implemented during or after an HF hospitalization has been shown to reduce hospitalization and mortality rates. Particularly for outpatients, it is necessary to provide self-care interventions. Structured nurse-led support such as timely follow-ups, including phone calls, is beneficial for improving self-care assessments. Evidence for nurse-led support has been investigated but is less than conclusive. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of a nurse-led structured intervention for outpatients with chronic HF against the usual medical care in terms of self-care behaviors and occurrence of symptom exacerbation or rehospitalization. This is a cluster-randomized controlled trial. A total of 40 facilities with certified HF nurses will be allocated to two-arm clusters at a 1:1 ratio, randomly to the intervention or usual care arms. A total of 210 participants will be assigned from the hospital. Participants will be adults aged 18 years or older diagnosed with chronic HF who are classified as Stage C according to the ACCF/AHA Heart Failure staging system. In the intervention group, patients will receive structured nursing support. This begins with weekly support, including phone calls, for the first month, then transitions to monthly support thereafter. The aim is to ensure the stability of their living conditions, promote medication adherence, and encourage self-management. In the control group, patients will receive the usual care. Primary outcomes will assess the improvement or continuation of self-care behavior as measured by changes in EHFScBS (European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale) scores. Secondary outcomes include occurrence of readmission within 30 days, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge, duration of home care until readmission, and blood levels of BNP and NT-proBNP.

Supportive care improves self-care management and knowledge of patients with heart failure and diabetes mellitus

Abstract Introduction Heart failure (HF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) most of the times occur together, aggravating patients’ outcomes and the interaction of the two conditions, which is complex, make the application of effective management programs necessary, in order to improve patients’ outcomes. Purpose The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an individualized supportive care management program in patients with HF and DM, in order to improve patients’ self-management compared to the ‘usual’ care. Methods The current study is a sub-analysis of the randomized clinical trial named ‘SupportHeart’ using pragmatic methodology. It was consisted by the intervention group (IG) and the control group (CG). The study investigated the patients for a period of one year at 5 time points (in baseline, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year). Self –care management was measured with the Greek versions of two tools: the ‘Self-care of Heart Failure Index’ (Gr-SCHFI) and the ‘European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale’ (Gr9EHFScBS). Linear Mixed Models Effects (LMME) were also used. Results The sample consisted of 121 patients with HF and DM and 66% were male patients. The Linear Mixed Model results have shown that there was a statistically significant effect of the intervention at all the time points after the intervention p &amp;lt; 0.001 in all the dimensions of the SCHFI; in the dimension of maintenance [1 month=2.6 (0.81, 4.4) p= 0.005, 3 months = 5.2 (3.4, 7.1) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months = 8.1 (6.2, 10) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 1 year = 7.5 (5.7, 9.4) p &amp;lt; 0.001], on the management [1 month = 4.1(2.8, 5.4) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 3 months = 5.1 (3.8, 6.4) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months = 7.5 (6.1, 8.9) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 1 year = 10 (8.7, 11) p &amp;lt; 0.001 and on the self-confidence [1 month =4.9 (3.4, 6.5) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 3 months = 7.8 (6.2, 9.4) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months = 8.5 (6.9, 10) p &amp;lt; 0.001 and in 1 year = 9.1 (7.5, 11) p &amp;lt; 0.001]. The Linear Mixed Model results showed also a statistically significant effect of the intervention at all the time points after the intervention p &amp;lt; 0.001 in all the dimensions of the GR9EHFScBS: in the dimension of adhering to recommendations [1 month=1.5 (0.71, 2.3) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 3 months = 1.4 (0.59, 2.3) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months=1.6 (0.69, 2.4) p &amp;lt; 0.001, in 1 year = 4.3 (3.5, 5.1) p &amp;lt; 0.001], on the fluid and sodium management [1 month = 2.3 (1.3, 3.2) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 3 months = 3.6 (2.6, 4.6) ) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months = 4.5 (3.5, 5.5) p &amp;lt; 0.001, in 1 year = 6.4 (5.4, 7.4) ) p &amp;lt; 0.001 and on the physical activity and recognition of deteriorating symptoms [1 month = 2.6 (1.7, 3.6) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 3 months = 3.4 (2.4, 4.3) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 6 months = 3.9 (2.9, 4.9) p &amp;lt; 0.001, 1 year = 5.8 (4.8, 6.7) p &amp;lt; 0.001]. Conclusion Supportive care seems to be a promising concept for HF-DM management programs. The pragmatic methodology that was used in the research study has an intensive intervention which started rapidly and in early stages, on a person-centred basis.

Relationship between perceived fear of COVID-19 and self-care management in heart failure patients

Introduction and aim. The fear of contracting COVID-19, which affects human health biopsychosocially, is expected to affect the self-care management of patients with heart failure (HF). This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between perceived fear of COVID-19 and self-care management in HF patients. Material and methods. The study was conducted with 115 HF patients. “Sociodemographic characteristics form”, “Fear of COVID-19 tool” and “Nine-item European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale (EHFScB Scale-9)” were used to collect data. Results. 51.3% of the participants in the study are in the 40–60 age range, 53.7% are male, 92.2% live with their family, 64.3% have a diagnosis of HF for less than 5 years. Levels of COVID-19 fear, and self-care management were found to be high in the participants who are 40 years old or younger, has higher education level, diagnosed within 1 to 3 years, received psychological support during the pandemic process, received training from doctor or nurse about COVID-19. Fear level and self-care levels were moderately positively correlated. Conclusion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to develop effective care strategies to identify individuals with diseases such as HF who should have high self-care management skills.

Empowering self-management: exploring self-care practices in heart failure patients

Background and Aim: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome in which ventricular filling and beating functions are impaired. HF also causes psychosocial and economic problems and is a significant public health problem affecting the quality of life. Effective self-care (SC) is a non-pharmacological method that contributes to treatment, improves the patient's quality of life, and reduces repeated hospitalizations and economic burdens. Our study aimed to evaluate self-care in HF patients and to determine the factors affecting SC.&#x0D; &#x0D; Materials and methods: A total of 100 patients with HF, including 36 women and 64 men, were included in the study. Data were collected by using the Descriptive Information Form and the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale in one-on-one interviews with patients under appropriate physical conditions.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: Our findings indicate that a range of factors, including age, hypertension, educational status, the total number of comorbid diseases, and the use of certain medications such as SGLT-2 inhibitors, differently impact SC behaviors. SC behaviors were found to be adequate in the study population&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: We identified essential factors that affect SC in HF patients. We have identified critical factors such as age, educational status, hypertension, comorbidity, and particularly the use of SGLT2 inhibitors, as key influencers of SC practices. For this reason, patient-centered healthcare models should be developed and considered by medical practitioners.

Prevalence and predictors of poor self-care behaviors in patients with chronic heart failure

Despite the indispensable role of self-care behavior in managing heart failure, the practice of self-care behavior remains poor, especially in developing countries. There is a scarcity of research focusing on poor self-care behavior and its determinants within our specific context. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and predictors of poor self-care behavior among ambulatory heart failure patients. A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia, involving patients with heart failure. We utilized the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale (EHFScBS-9) to evaluate adherence to self-care behaviors. Data were gathered through patient interviews and a review of medical records. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of poor self-care behavior in heart failure patients. We included a total of 343 participants in the final analysis of this study. The findings revealed that a majority of the patients (73.8%) demonstrated poor overall self-care behavior. Specifically, the majority of patients did not engage in regular exercise (76.1%), failed to consult doctors in case of rapid weight gain (75.6%), did not monitor weight daily (71.5%), did not restrict fluid intake (69.9%), and did not contact doctors in case of experiencing fatigue (68.6%). Additionally, 32.4% of patients did not reach out to doctors when experiencing shortness of breath, 30% did not restrict salt intake, 29% did not adhere to prescribed medication, and only 7% did not consult doctors if edema occurred. Our findings indicated that rural residence (AOR: 5.76, 95% CI: 2.47–13.43), illiteracy (AOR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.52–6.31), prior hospitalization (AOR: 2.09, 95% CI: 1.21–3.61), and taking five or more medications (AOR: 1.83, 1.01–3.33) were significant predictors of poor self-care behavior. In conclusion, a majority of the participants in our study demonstrated poor self-care behavior. Risk factors for this behavior included rural residence, illiteracy, prior hospitalization, and taking five or more medications. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize these high-risk patients and implement interventional programs aimed at improving self-care behaviors and overall treatment outcomes in heart failure patients.

Postpartum quality of life and mental health in women with heart disease: Integrated clinical communication and treatment.

Postpartum quality of life (QoL) in women with heart disease has been neglected. To improve clinical communication and treatment, we integrated medical data and subjective characteristics to study postpartum QoL concerns. The study assessed QoL 6 wk after birth using the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire, European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale, and a self-designed questionnaire based on earlier research were also used to assess patient characteristics. Patient data were collected. Prediction models were created using multiple linear regression. This retrospective study examined postpartum QoL in 105 cardiac patients. Postpartum QoL scores were lower (90.69 ± 13.82) than those of women without heart disease, with physical component scores (41.09 ± 9.91) lower than mental component scores (49.60 ± 14.87). Postpartum depression (33.3%), moderate anxiety (37.14%), pregnancy concerns (57.14%), offspring heart problems (57.14%), and life expectancy worries (48.6%) were all prevalent. No previous cardiac surgery, multiparity, higher sadness and cardiac anxiety, and fear of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes were strongly related to lower QoL (R2 = 0.525). Postpartum QoL is linked to physical and mental health in women with heart disease. Our study emphasizes the need for healthcare workers to recognize the unique characteristics of these women while developing and implementing comprehensive management approaches during their maternity care.

The long-term effect of an m-health tool on self-care in patients with heart failure: a pre-post interventional study with a mixed-method analysis.

The aims of this study were (i) to evaluate the effects of using an m-health tool on self-care behaviour at 3 and 12 months and (ii) to explore the experiences and perceptions of heart failure (HF) patients about the m-health tool. In this pre-post interventional study with a mixed-method analysis, 71 patients diagnosed with HF [49% female, mean age 76.7 years, New York Heart Association (NYHA) II 31%, NYHA III 69%] were enrolled and had the m-health tool installed in their home for 1 year. The tool consisted of a pre-programmed tablet including a weighing scale and interactive education about HF self-care. At baseline, and at 3 and 12 months, self-care was assessed using the European Heart Failure Self-care Behaviour (EHFScB-9) Scale, an eight-item self-administered questionnaire assessing the experiences of the m-health tool. The mean EHFScB-9 at baseline was 63.8 ± 2.8 and it improved to 67.6 ± 7.6 after 3 months (P < 0.05). After 1 year, the score had decreased to 63.2 ± 7.1 (P = 0.68). Most patients rated the tool as 'good', both at 3 months (92%) and after 12 months (93%). Some found the system to be unnecessary to some degree, and this number increased between 3 and 12 months (P < 0.001). Most patients felt that m-health increased their feelings of security, and 85% responded that the system increased their family members' sense of security. The m-health tool significantly improved patients' self-care behaviour after 3 months, but this effect did not persist after 1 year. For achieving long-term effects and outcomes, additional and regularly updated self-care support may be needed. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04955600.

Factors associated with medication non-adherence among patients with heart failure.

to identify the factors contributing to medication non-adherence among patients with heart failure. cross-sectional and analytical study using the Medida de Adesão ao Tratamento [Treatment Adherence Measure] scale to assess medication non-adherence. Independent variables were collected using the European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale and an instrument developed by the authors based on a previous study. Statistical tests were implemented to analyze data with p≤0.05 statistical significance. the sample comprised 340 patients, with 9.4% considered non-adherent. The multiple analysis results showed that one unit increase in an individual's self-care score led to an 8% increase in the prevalence of non-adherence; patients with a family income above three times the minimum wage presented a prevalence of non-adherence equal to 3.5% of the prevalence of those with up to one times the minimum wage; individuals consuming alcohol or with depression presented 3.49 and 3.69 times higher prevalence of non-adherence, respectively, than individuals not presenting such history. medication non-adherence was associated with self-care, family income, depression, and alcohol consumption.

Comparing the Effects of Face-to-Face and Virtual Self-Care Training Methods on Self‐Care and Quality of Life among Patients with Heart Failure: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study

Background and Objective: Heart failure is one of the most common chronic, progressive, and debilitating heart disorders, exerting a destructive effect on self-care and quality of life in these patients. The present study aimed to compare the effects of face-to-face and virtual self-care training methods on self‐care and quality of life among patients with heart failure. Materials and Methods: This three-group clinical trial study was conducted on 120 patients with heart failure admitted to Farshchian Hospital in Hamadan. The samples were selected via the available sampling method and assigned to three groups (control, virtual, and face-to-face education) using permuted block randomization. Demographic characteristics form, European Heart Failure Self-care Behaviour Scale (EHFScBs), and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) were completed by self-report before the intervention. The control group received only the routine training of the clinic, while the face-to-face training group received self-care training in four one-hour group sessions, one day apart. The virtual group received the same amount of education in the form of educational clips, and two months after the intervention, the questionnaires were completed. Chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, paired t-test, and one-way analysis of variance were used to analyze the data. Results: The results pointed out that before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between the demographic variables, self-care, and quality of life of patients in the three groups (P&gt; 0.05). After the intervention, no statistically significant difference was observed between the virtual and face-to-face training groups in terms of self-care and quality of life (P&gt;0.05). Nonetheless, self-care and quality of life were improved in these two groups compared to the control group (P˂0.05). Conclusion: Both virtual and face-to-face training methods had the same effect on self-care and quality of life. Virtual training is a great alternative to face-to-face training in the absence of necessary conditions.

Investigating the predictive role of spiritual health, social support, and quality of life in self-care behaviors among heart failure patients.

Self-care behaviors, which have a vital role in the management of heart failure disease, are influenced by several factors that are of paramount importance. This study aimed to determine the predictive role of spiritual health, social support, and quality of life in self-care behaviors among heart failure patients. This descriptive-analytical study was conducted from July to September 2021 on 203 patients with heart failure. Samples were selected by convenience sampling method from six centers in Ahvaz city. Data were collected using a clinical-demographic information questionnaire, the European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale (EHFScBs), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and Paloutzian and Ellison's Spiritual Well-being Scale. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 16 using descriptive and analytical statistical methods including Pearson's correlation coefficient, regression analysis, independent t-test, and analysis of variance. The mean and standard deviation of the age of the female and male participants were 63.54 ± 14.03 and 62.34 ± 13.79, respectively. The majority of the participants (54.2%) were female, had primary education (23.2%), and were married (82.8%). Statistically significant relationships were observed between perceived social support and self-care (r = -0.22, P < 0.01), between spiritual health and self-care (r = -0.39, P < 0.01), and between the quality of life and self-care (r = 0.62, P < 0.01). However, no such relationship was found between demographic characteristics and self-care. Considering the predictive role of spiritual health, social support, and quality of life in self-care behaviors, it is necessary for planners to pay special attention to these factors when designing educational-supportive programs for these patients.

Effect of Daily Activity Record-Based Self-monitoring Intervention on the Perception of Physical Sensations in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

To prevent rehospitalization for heart failure (HF), patients need to be able to perceive physical changes that occur at the onset of HF exacerbation and seek early help. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a self-monitoring intervention on patients' perceptions of physical sensations during daily activities in the context of HF via a randomized controlled trial. Participants (N = 70) were randomly assigned to the intervention (received daily activity record-based self-monitoring intervention support; group A) or control (only explained the measured results from the records; group B) group. Group A reflected on and described the physical sensations in their daily activities within 1 month after discharge. Outcome measures were assessed at 1 month after the intervention using the European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale, Evaluation Scale for Self-Monitoring by patients with Heart Failure, clinical events, physical activity, and sleep. There was no significant difference in the change in the "asking for help" subscale score of the European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale between the groups (+0.7 vs +0.4 points, P = .716). Group A had improved score on the self-monitoring subscale related to "concern about how movements affect body" from baseline (from 12.7 to 14.0 points, P = .026). There was no significant effect of self-monitoring intervention support on the first rehospitalization related to HF and all-cause death (log-rank χ 2 = 0.432, P = .511). A significant difference in moderate-intensity physical activity between the groups was observed (+4.6 vs -0.5 minutes, P = .029). A focused strategy that enables patients to perceive their physical sensations and promotes early help-seeking behavior is needed.

Impact of qualified nursing education on self-care and disease knowledge in heart failure patients

Abstract Purpose Guidelines on management of heart failure patients support intensive patient education on self-care. To evaluate the short and long-term impact of a structured education by a qualified heart failure nurse on patient´s self-care and disease knowledge. Methods 131 patients (66±12 years) hospitalized for heart failure participated in a structured one hour education program by a heart failure nurse. Patients completed a questionnaire consisting of 15 questions, nine of the European Heart Failure Self-Care Behaviour Scale (EHFScB-9) and additionally six questions on the patient´s disease knowledge 1 day before, 6 months and 12 months after the education course. Possible responses ranged from 1 (complete agreement) to 5 (complete disagreement). Clinical events during the 12 months follow-up period were determined. Factors predicting with potential impact on the teaching effect were evaluated. Seven patients refused further participation during follow-up, 13 patients were lost during follow-up, and one patient was excluded from the study due to progressive dementia. Results Nine patients died during the study and 33 patients had recurrent hospitalization for heart failure. EHFScB-9 scale improved from 24.0±7.2 at baseline to 17.0±7.4 (p&amp;lt;0.001) at 6 months, and 17.2±6.1 (p&amp;lt;0.001 vs. baseline) after 12 months. Concerning the disease knowledge score, it improved from 17.9±5.3 at baseline to 12.1±4.3 (p&amp;lt;0.05) at 6 months follow-up, and to 12.0±5.5 (p&amp;lt;0.05) at 12 months after education. Scores to individual questions prior to education ranged from 1.2±0.8 on adherence to the medication protocol to 2.7±1.4 on everyday weighting habits. Greatest improvement after education were obtained on reaction to weight gains (-1.9±1.3), daily weight control (-1.6±1.4) and knowledge on the reason of patient’s heart failure (-1.6±1.2). The NYHA-classification improved from 2.8±0.8 before teaching to 2.2±0.7 (p&amp;lt;0.001) at 12-months follow-up. No predictor of an insufficient teaching effect could be defined. Patients with a clinical event (death, recurrent hospitalization) had a combined EHFScB-9 and disease knowledge score of 32.6±8.1vs. 28.9±9.9 in those patients without a clinical event. Patients with more than one hospitalization due to acute decompensated heart failure during the follow-up period express insignificant improvement of the combined EHFScB-9 and disease knowledge score immediately after the education session. Conclusions A qualified nurse education program improves self-care behaviour and patient´s disease knowledge with a persisting effect at 6 and 12 months follow-up. There are no patient characteristics which preclude the implementation of an educational session.

Abstract 13344: Differential Impact of Self-Care Behaviour on Mortality Between Patients With Stable and Recent Worsening Chronic Heart Failure

Backgrounds: Although self-care is crucial to maintain health and recommended in the guidelines in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), its prognostic significance is controversial. We hypothesized that self-care is more effective in vulnerable patients with recent hospitalization due to worsening HF (WHF). The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance of self-care behaviour on mortality between patients with stable and recent worsening CHF. Methods: We prospectively examined consecutive 1,873 CHF patients from a Japanese multicenter registry and assessed the European Heart Failure Self-care Behaviour Scale (EHFScBS) at enrollment. The patients were divided into inpatient due to WHF (WHF group) and outpatient stable CHF (stable CHF group). The optimal EHFScBS was defined as more than 70 based on previous reports. The primary outcome was all-cause death. Results: Of studied patients (1,102 male, mean age 72 ± 13 years), 625 (33%) and 1,165 (67%) were classified into WHF and stable CHF groups, respectively. During a median follow-up period of 427 (IQR 273 - 642) days, the primary outcome occurred in 50 patients. In stable CHF group, there was no significant difference on primary outcome between optimal and suboptimal EHFScBS (P = 0.65) (Figure A). On the other hand, patients with suboptimal EHFScBS showed a higher incidence of death than those with optimal score in WHF group (P = 0.01) (Figure B). In WHF group, Cox regressions showed that the EHFScBS score was independently associated with mortality (HR 0.51, 95% CI 0.26-0.99) adjusted for significant covariates including hemoglobin, estimated glomerular filtration rate, serum sodium, log NT-proBNP, and the Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure risk score. Conclusions: In patients with recent worsening, not stable CHF, the EHFScBS was associated with subsequent mortality, indicating that the self-care education might be more effective for patients with recent worsening CHF.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Psychometric Evaluation of the Third Version of the Atlanta Heart Failure Knowledge Test.

Background and Purpose: This study is aimed at translating the third version of the Atlanta Heart Failure Knowledge Test (AHFKTv3) into the Persian language and evaluating its psychometric properties. Methods: In this methodological study, the AHFKTv3 was translated into Persian and its face, content, construct validity, and reliability were assessed. Results: The content validity of AHFKTv3 items was >0.78 and the validity of the instrument was 0.96. The standardized factor loading value of all items, except for item 16, was >0.3. The scores of the AHFKTv3 and European Heart Failure Self-Care Behavior Scale had a significant correlation with each other (p < .001). The AHFKTv3 score had a significant relationship with the educational level. The Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 coefficient was 0.908. Conclusion: The Persian AHFKTv3 is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing HF-related knowledge; therefore, it can be used in nursing practice to identify and address the deficits aiming for better patient care and in research to evaluate treatment and healthcare programs.