Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Workflow and Framework for Collecting and Implementing Point-of-Care Ultrasound Data in the Management of Heart Failure Patients
03:47

Workflow and Framework for Collecting and Implementing Point-of-Care Ultrasound Data in the Management of Heart Failure Patients

Published on: July 12, 2024

The role of nurses in managing patients with heart failure

Cas Shotter1

  • 1West Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust, Isleworth.

Nursing Times
|March 24, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Heart failure, a syndrome of reduced heart pumping, is increasingly prevalent due to coronary heart disease (CHD). More survivors of heart attacks experience lasting left ventricular dysfunction, driving this rise.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Heart failure is a clinical syndrome where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
  • Prevalence of heart failure from coronary heart disease (CHD) is rising.
  • Increased survival from acute heart attacks leads to residual left ventricular dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address the increasing prevalence of heart failure.
  • To highlight the impact of coronary heart disease on heart failure rates.
  • To outline standards for heart failure treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of heart failure prevalence and causes.
  • Analysis of trends in coronary heart disease mortality and survival.
  • Examination of National Service Framework for Coronary Heart Disease guidelines.

Main Results:

  • Despite declining CHD mortality, CHD-related heart failure is increasing.
  • An aging population contributes to higher heart failure rates.
  • Improved acute heart attack survival results in more cases of left ventricular dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • Heart failure management requires attention, particularly cases linked to CHD.
  • The National Service Framework provides standards for heart failure care.
  • Addressing residual left ventricular dysfunction is crucial for managing heart failure.

Related Concept Videos

Heart Failure VII: Nursing Interventions01:30

Heart Failure VII: Nursing Interventions

The first step in nursing management of a patient with heart failure involves thoroughly assessing the patient's medical history.Subjective Data: Obtain the patient's medical history of coronary artery disease, hypertension, myocardial infarction, and symptoms like dyspnea, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea.Objective Data: Conduct a physical examination to identify findings such as jugular vein distention, pulmonary crackles, tachycardia, murmurs, peripheral edema, and vital signs,...
Heart Failure V: Medical Management01:30

Heart Failure V: Medical Management

Medical Management of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF)The primary goals of therapy for patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) include:Relieving symptomsOptimizing volume statusSupporting oxygenation and ventilationMaintaining cardiac output (CO) and end-organ perfusionIdentifying and addressing the cause of ADHFPreventing complicationsProviding patient education on factors precipitating HF exacerbationPlanning for dischargeOngoing monitoring and assessment...
Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management01:28

Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, leading to the backward flow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole. This condition can arise from various causes, including rheumatic fever, infective endocarditis, or degenerative valve disease. Effective nursing management is crucial to optimizing patient outcomes and involves comprehensive assessment and targeted interventions.Comprehensive Patient AssessmentA detailed...
Cardiomyopathy VI: Nursing Management01:29

Cardiomyopathy VI: Nursing Management

Assessment: Nursing management of patients with cardiomyopathy begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's history, including a family history of cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, personal history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and any alcohol consumption or drug use.During the physical examination, assess vital signs, look for signs of heart failure (such as edema, jugular venous distention, and cyanosis), auscultate for abnormal heart sounds (like murmurs and gallops),...
Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management01:25

Pericarditis IV: Nursing Management

Pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, necessitates diligent nursing management to ensure effective patient care and recovery. The initial step in managing pericarditis is a comprehensive patient medical assessment.The patient reports chest pain aggravated by breathing, coughing, and swallowing, which worsens when lying supine. The pain often improves when sitting up and leaning forward. Additional symptoms may include fever, malaise, and, in severe cases, signs of heart failure.
Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies01:22

Heart Failure VI: Adjunct Therapies

Additional therapies for treating patients with heart failure (HF) may include procedural interventions, supplemental oxygen, the management of sleep disorders, and nutritional therapy.Procedural InterventionsImplantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator: For patients at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias due to severe left ventricular dysfunction, an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) can detect and terminate these arrhythmias, preventing sudden cardiac death and improving survival rates.