Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy As a Chronic Heart Failure Model in Swine
Published on: February 17, 2018
A conceptual model of cognitive deficits in chronic heart failure
Susan J Bennett1, Mary Jane Sauvé, Rose Mary Shaw
1Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. sbennet@iupui.edu
Insights
This study presents a conceptual model to understand cognitive deficits in heart failure patients. This framework aids in future research and developing interventions for improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Heart failure (HF) is associated with significant cognitive impairment.
- Understanding the pathophysiology of HF and cognitive deficits is crucial.
- Health-related quality of life is a key outcome in HF management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a conceptual model for studying cognitive deficits in heart failure.
- To guide empirical research on cognitive dysfunction in HF patients.
- To inform the development of targeted interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review integrating pathophysiology of heart failure and cognitive deficits.
- Inclusion of contributing variables such as age, comorbidities, hypertension, and depression.
- Consideration of covariates like medications, gender, and education.
Main Results:
- Identified key cognitive domains affected: attention, working memory, memory, learning, executive function, and psychomotor speed.
- Proposed health-related quality of life as the main outcome variable.
- Hypothesized influence of circulatory insufficiency and cognitive deficits on quality of life.
Conclusions:
- The presented model serves as a framework for empirical testing of cognitive deficits in heart failure.
- Validated through empirical testing, the model can guide intervention development.
- Aims to improve care for heart failure patients with cognitive complications.
Purpose:
To describe a conceptual model to guide studies of cognitive deficits among patients with heart failure.
Organizing Framework:
The conceptual framework of cognitive deficits in chronic heart failure is based on theoretical and empirical literature about (a) the pathophysiology of heart failure, (b) the pathophysiology of cognitive deficits, and (c) health-related quality of life. Other variables that may cause or contribute to cognitive deficits include age, the relative contributions of multiple comorbid conditions, hypertension, and depressive symptoms. Covariates that might influence cognitive deficits (medications, gender, and education) are also included in the model. The most prominent cognitive deficits are believed to occur in domains of attention, working memory, memory, learning, executive function, and psychomotor speed. The main outcome variable is health-related quality of life, which is believed to be influenced by circulatory insufficiency and cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
The conceptual model described in this paper is a framework for testing cognitive deficits that occur in heart failure. After validation through empirical testing, the model may be useful in developing interventions for patients with heart failure whose care is complicated by cognitive deficits.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Heart Failure I: Introduction
Imbalances in Cardiac Output
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send blood...
Heart Failure III: Clinical Manifestations
Heart Failure IV: Classification and Diagnostic Evaluation
