Exploring the experience and management of thirst in patients with heart failure: a qualitative study from patients...

To explore the experience and management of thirst in patients with heart failure and the cardiovascular nurses involved in their care.

This qualitative exploratory study used purposive sampling to select patients with heart failure and cardiovascular nurses. One-on-one, semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Interviews were conducted with 12 patients with heart failure and 11 nurses. Three major themes with eleven sub-themes were identified: (1) The multidimensional burden of thirst (frequent and prolonged symptoms, physical discomfort, and emotional distress); (2) the interplay of innovative and traditional approaches (alleviation through drinking water, modifying behavioural habits, seeking help from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and utilizing various aids); and (3) barriers and needs in thirst management (thirst is perceived as minor compared to other symptoms, thirst is challenging to recognize, the need for standardized assessment, and the need for knowledge empowerment).

This qualitative study highlights the significant burden of thirst in patients with heart failure and the critical need for improved thirst management. These findings have implications for healthcare providers in developing an environment that supports effective thirst management.