DIFICULTIES IN SELF CARE AMONG PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE IN NAMDINH GENERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Self care of heart failure (HF) is difficult to master, but the reasons why remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore how HF influences patients’lives, assess how they perform self care and determine how their life situation impedes HF self care. Qualitative data were obtained from 20 individuals with HF. Data were gathered using structure interviews and analyzed using content analysis. Physical limitation and distress emotions were common. Patients discussed their limitation in following dietary, exercise and medication recommendation, symptoms recognision and reaction. Some adaptation strategies were mentioned. With the number of dificuties these patients face, it is not suprising that self care of HF is typically poor and that readmission rates to be high. Recommendations are provided for an approach to patient education and counseling that uses these findings in practice and further researches.