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Faulkner KM, Jurgens CY, Denfeld QE, Lyons KS, Harman Thompson J, Lee CS. Identifying unique profiles of perceived dyspnea burden in heart failure. Heart Lung 2020; 49:488-494. [PMID: 32434702 PMCID: PMC7483352 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2020.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyspnea is a common symptom of heart failure (HF) but dyspnea burden is highly variable. OBJECTIVES Identify distinct profiles of dyspnea burden and identify predictors of dyspnea symptom profile. METHODS A secondary analysis of data from five studies completed at Oregon Health and Science University was conducted. The Heart Failure Somatic Perception Scale was used to measure dyspnea burden. Latent class mixture modeling identified distinct profiles of dyspnea burden in a sample of HF patients (n = 449). Backwards stepwise multinomial logistic regression identified predictors of latent profile membership. RESULTS Four profiles of dyspnea burden were identified: no dyspnea/not bothered by dyspnea, mild dyspnea, moderate exertional dyspnea, and moderate exertional dyspnea with orthopnea and PND. Higher age was associated with greater likelihood of not being bothered by dyspnea than having moderate exertional dyspnea with orthopnea and PND. Higher NYHA class, anxiety, and depression were associated with greater likelihood of greater dyspnea burden. CONCLUSIONS Burden of dyspnea is highly variable among HF patients. Clinicians should account for the nuances of dyspnea and the activities that induce dyspnea when assessing HF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M Faulkner
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States; Stony Brook University School of Nursing, Nicolls Road, Health Sciences Center Level 2 - Room 204, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States.
| | - Corrine Y Jurgens
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States
| | - Quin E Denfeld
- Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing, 3455 SW U.S. Veterans Hospital Road | Mailcode: SN-ORD, Portland, OR 97239, United States
| | - Karen S Lyons
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States
| | - Jessica Harman Thompson
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States; University of Kentucky College of Nursing, 751 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0232, United States.
| | - Christopher S Lee
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, United States.
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"Whatever happens, happens" challenges of end-of-life communication from the perspective of older adults and family caregivers: a Qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:113. [PMID: 31830967 PMCID: PMC6909516 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Effective communication is integral to the delivery of goal-concordant care for older adults and their family caregivers, and yet, it is uncommon in people with serious illness. This study explores the challenges of integrating end-of-life communication into heart failure management from the perspectives of older adults and family caregivers. Methods In a qualitative study of older adults with heart failure and their family caregivers, fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 participants in Ontario, Canada. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. Results Four themes were identified in the context of participants’ understanding of illness: 1) trivializing illness-related challenges, 2) positivity in late life, 3) discomfort in having end-of-life conversations, and 4) reluctant to engage despite need. These challenges often intertwine with one another. Most participants had not engaged in end-of-life discussions with their clinicians or family members. Conclusion The findings provide insights that can inform approaches to integrate end-of-life communication for older adults with serious illness and caregivers. The identified challenges highlight a need for end-of-life communication to occur earlier in illness to be able to support individuals throughout the period of decline. In addition, end-of-life communication should be introduced iteratively for those who may not be ready to engage. Alternative approaches to communication are needed to elicit the challenges that patients and caregivers experience throughout the progression of illness to improve care for people nearing the end of life.
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Castro RRT, Joyce E, Lakdawala NK, Stewart G, Nohria A, Givertz MM, Desai A, Lewis EF, Stevenson LW. Patients report more severe daily limitations than recognized by their physicians. Clin Cardiol 2019; 42:1181-1188. [PMID: 31571248 PMCID: PMC6906987 DOI: 10.1002/clc.23269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient limitations guide selection of heart failure therapies, for which indications often specify New York Heart Association Class. OBJECTIVES To determine the extent of patient-reported limitations during daily activities and compare to New York Heart Association class assigned by providers during the same visit, and to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) group. METHODS AND RESULTS While waiting for their appointment, 948 patients on return visits to an ambulatory HF clinic completed a written questionnaire assessing specific activity limitations, which were compared to physician-assigned NYHA class during the same visit. Patient-reported limitation to perform daily activity ranged from 25% for bathing to 61% for yardwork or housework and 71% for jogging or hurrying. Most patients who did not report limitations to perform daily life activities were correctly classified as NYHA I by the physicians (76%), but 12% of the 376 patients classified as NYHA I reported limitations to showering or bathing and 73% reported limitations while doing yardwork or house work. Limitation to walking was reported by 172 patients (50%) classified as class II. Limitations to walking one block were most common in patients with LVEF ≥40% compared to patients with LVEF <40%, and least commonly, in HF with better EF (improved from 31 ± 13 to 52 ± 7). CONCLUSIONS Activity limitations are commonly reported by ambulatory HF patients, but underestimated by physicians. It is not clear how this should guide therapy validated for NYHA class but focused activity questions may merit wider use to track limitations and improvement in ambulatory HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata R T Castro
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Hospital Naval Marcilio Dias, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade Iguaçu, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Emer Joyce
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Neal K Lakdawala
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Garrick Stewart
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anju Nohria
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michael M Givertz
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Akshay Desai
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Eldrin F Lewis
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lynne W Stevenson
- Cardiomyopathy & Advanced Heart Disease Training, Vanderbilt Heart and Vascular Institute, Nashville, Tennessee
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Lovell N, Etkind SN, Bajwah S, Maddocks M, Higginson IJ. Control and Context Are Central for People With Advanced Illness Experiencing Breathlessness: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis. J Pain Symptom Manage 2019; 57:140-155.e2. [PMID: 30291949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Breathlessness is common and distressing in advanced illness. It is a challenge to assess, with few effective treatment options. To evaluate new treatments, appropriate outcome measures that reflect the concerns of people experiencing breathlessness are needed. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to systematically review and synthesize the main concerns of people with advanced illness experiencing breathlessness to guide comprehensive clinical assessment and inform future outcome measurement in clinical practice and research. METHODS This is a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. MEDLINE (1946-2017), PsycINFO (1806-2017), and EMBASE (1974-2017), as well as key journals, gray literature, reference lists, and citation searches, identified qualitative studies exploring the concerns of people living with breathlessness. Included studies were quality-assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist and analyzed using thematic synthesis. RESULTS We included 38 studies with 672 participants. Concerns were identified across six domains of "total" breathlessness: physical, emotional, spiritual, social, control, and context (chronic and episodic breathlessness). Four of these have been previously identified in the concept of "total dyspnea." Control and context have been newly identified as important, particularly in their influence on coping and help-seeking behavior. The importance of social participation, impact on relationships, and loss of perceived role within social and spiritual domains also emerged as being significant to individuals. CONCLUSION People with advanced illness living with breathlessness have concerns in multiple domains, supporting a concept of "total breathlessness." This adapted model can help to guide comprehensive clinical assessment and inform future outcome measurement in clinical practice and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Lovell
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Simon N Etkind
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sabrina Bajwah
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Maddocks
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Bjørnnes AK, Parry M, Leegaard M, Ayala AP, Lenton E, Harvey P, McFetridge-Durdle J, McGillion MH, Price J, Stinson J, Watt-Watson J. Self-Management of Cardiac Pain in Women: A Meta-Summary of the Qualitative Literature. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2018; 28:1769-1787. [PMID: 29916769 DOI: 10.1177/1049732318780683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Symptom recognition and self-management is instrumental in reducing the number of deaths related to coronary artery disease (CAD) in women. The purpose of this study was to synthesize qualitative research evidence on the self-management of cardiac pain and associated symptoms in women. Seven databases were systematically searched, and the concepts of the Individual and Family Self-Management Theory were used as the framework for data extraction and analysis. Search strategies yielded 22,402 citations, from which 35 qualitative studies were included in a final meta-summary, comprising data from 769 participants, including 437 (57%) women. The available literature focused cardiac pain self-management from a binary sex and gender perspective. Ethnicity was indicated in 19 (54%) studies. Results support individualized intervention strategies that promote goal setting and action planning, management of physical and emotional responses, and social facilitation provided through social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Kristin Bjørnnes
- 1 University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- 2 Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Monica Parry
- 1 University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Erica Lenton
- 1 University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Harvey
- 3 Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Jennifer Stinson
- 1 University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- 6 The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Alpert CM, Smith MA, Hummel SL, Hummel EK. Symptom burden in heart failure: assessment, impact on outcomes, and management. Heart Fail Rev 2018; 22:25-39. [PMID: 27592330 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-016-9581-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Evidence-based management has improved long-term survival in patients with heart failure (HF). However, an unintended consequence of increased longevity is that patients with HF are exposed to a greater symptom burden over time. In addition to classic symptoms such as dyspnea and edema, patients with HF frequently suffer additional symptoms such as pain, depression, gastrointestinal distress, and fatigue. In addition to obvious effects on quality of life, untreated symptoms increase clinical events including emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and long-term mortality in a dose-dependent fashion. Symptom management in patients with HF consists of two key components: comprehensive symptom assessment and sufficient knowledge of available approaches to alleviate the symptoms. Successful treatment addresses not just the physical but also the emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of suffering. Despite a lack of formal experience during cardiovascular training, symptom management in HF can be learned and implemented effectively by cardiology providers. Co-management with palliative medicine specialists can add significant value across the spectrum and throughout the course of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig M Alpert
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michael A Smith
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Scott L Hummel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ellen K Hummel
- VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. .,University of Michigan Frankel Cardiovascular Center, 1500 East Medical Center Dr., SPC 5233, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5233, USA.
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Hutchinson A, Barclay-Klingle N, Galvin K, Johnson MJ. Living with breathlessness: a systematic literature review and qualitative synthesis. Eur Respir J 2018; 51:51/2/1701477. [PMID: 29467199 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01477-2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
What is the experience of people living with breathlessness due to medical conditions, those caring for them and those treating them, with regard to quality of life and the nature of clinical interactions?Electronic databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL Plus and PsycINFO) were searched (January 1987 to October 2017; English language), for qualitative studies exploring the experience of chronic breathlessness (patients, carers and clinicians). Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts and papers retrieved against inclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved with a third reviewer. Primary qualitative data were extracted and synthesised using thematic synthesis.Inclusion and synthesis of 101 out of 2303 international papers produced four descriptive themes: 1) widespread effects of breathlessness; 2) coping; 3) help-seeking behaviour; and 4) clinicians' responsiveness to the symptom of breathlessness. The themes were combined to form the concept of "breathing space", to show how engaged coping and appropriate help-seeking (patient) and attention to symptom (clinician) helps maximise the patient's quality of living with breathlessness.Breathlessness has widespread impact on both patient and carer and affects breathing space. The degree of breathing space is influenced by interaction between the patient's coping style, their help-seeking behaviour and their clinician's responsiveness to breathlessness itself, in addition to managing the underlying disease.
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Hargreaves S, Hawley MS, Haywood A, Enderby PM. Informing the Design of "Lifestyle Monitoring" Technology for the Detection of Health Deterioration in Long-Term Conditions: A Qualitative Study of People Living With Heart Failure. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e231. [PMID: 28659253 PMCID: PMC5508118 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.6931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health technologies are being developed to help people living at home manage long-term conditions. One such technology is “lifestyle monitoring” (LM), a telecare technology based on the idea that home activities may be monitored unobtrusively via sensors to give an indication of changes in health-state. However, questions remain about LM technology: how home activities change when participants experience differing health-states; and how sensors might capture clinically important changes to inform timely interventions. Objective The objective of this paper was to report the findings of a study aimed at identifying changes in activity indicative of important changes in health in people with long-term conditions, particularly changes indicative of exacerbation, by exploring the relationship between home activities and health among people with heart failure (HF). We aimed to add to the knowledge base informing the development of home monitoring technologies designed to detect health deterioration in order to facilitate early intervention and avoid hospital admissions. Methods This qualitative study utilized semistructured interviews to explore everyday activities undertaken during the three health-states of HF: normal days, bad days, and exacerbations. Potential recruits were identified by specialist nurses and attendees at an HF support group. The sample was purposively selected to include a range of experience of living with HF. Results The sample comprised a total of 20 people with HF aged 50 years and above, and 11 spouses or partners of the individuals with HF. All resided in Northern England. Participant accounts revealed that home activities are in part shaped by the degree of intrusion from HF symptoms. During an exacerbation, participants undertook activities specifically to ease symptoms, and detailed activity changes were identified. Everyday activity was also influenced by a range of factors other than health. Conclusions The study highlights the importance of careful development of LM technology to identify changes in activities that occur during clinically important changes in health. These detailed activity changes need to be considered by developers of LM sensors, platforms, and algorithms intended to detect early signs of deterioration. Results suggest that for LM to move forward, sensor set-up should be personalized to individual circumstances and targeted at individual health conditions. LM needs to take account of the uncertainties that arise from placing technology within the home, in order to inform sensor set-up and data interpretation. This targeted approach is likely to yield more clinically meaningful data and address some of the ethical issues of remote monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hargreaves
- Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mark S Hawley
- Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Annette Haywood
- Public Health, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela M Enderby
- Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Walthall H, Jenkinson C, Boulton M. Living with breathlessness in chronic heart failure: a qualitative study. J Clin Nurs 2017; 26:2036-2044. [PMID: 27731919 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To explore how patients with Chronic Heart Failure describe their experiences of breathlessness, the pattern of their breathlessness, how daily life is affected and how they adjust to and manage these symptoms. BACKGROUND Chronic Heart Failure is a highly prevalent syndrome often with poor outcomes and in a patient group who are predominately elderly. Breathlessness is the main symptom experienced by patients and often relates to decompensation and hospitalisation, yet subtle changes described by patients are often not discussed with health care professionals. DESIGN A descriptive qualitative design. METHODS Twenty-five participants with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HF-rEF) from a tertiary referral centre in England were recruited. Each participant took part in a semi-structured interview exploring the effect of breathlessness had on their lives. Data was analysed through Braun and Clarke's framework for thematic analysis. RESULTS All participants reported experiencing breathlessness daily. Four sub-themes were identified in their accounts: nature of breathlessness, emotional impact of breathlessness, impact of breathlessness on daily life and managing breathlessness. CONCLUSION Participants were able to give vivid descriptions of breathlessness and the way it affected their lives. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Health care professionals need to take account of each patient's personal assessment of their own breathlessness and how this is having an effect on their life and ability to undertake activities of daily living. Self-care management strategies need to be developed so that subtle changes can be assessed by the patient and reviewed by the healthcare professional to avoid hospitalisation and increased mortality risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Walthall
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Crispin Jenkinson
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mary Boulton
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
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Zambroski CH, Bekelman DB. Palliative symptom management in patients with heart failure. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2013. [DOI: 10.1179/096992608x346206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Breathlessness in everyday life from a patient perspective: A qualitative study using diaries. Palliat Support Care 2013; 12:189-94. [DOI: 10.1017/s1478951512001095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjective:Breathlessness is a subjective symptom, which makes it difficult to define and understand. The aim of the present study was to illuminate how patients suffering from breathlessness experience their everyday life.Method:The study was a qualitative study, and the focus of the analysis was the patients' descriptions of their experiences of breathlessness using a diary with two unstructured questions for a period of 7 consecutive days. Sixteen participants: 7 men, mean age 65 ± 7 (range 55–73 years old), and 9 women, mean age 65 ± 9 (range 50–72 years old) participated in the study.Results:Two themes emerged from the analysis: 1) Impaired quality of life and 2) symptom tolerance and adaptation. The theme “impaired quality of life” included the categories limited physical ability, psychological burdens, and social life barriers. The theme “symptom tolerance and adaptation” included importance of health care, social support, hobbies and leisure activities, and coping strategies.Significance of results:The findings in our study showed that patients, in spite of considerable difficulties with shortness of breath, found relief in several types of activities, in addition to drug therapy. The result indicates that the “biopsychosocial model” is an appealing approach that should be discussed further to gain a better understanding of breathlessness.
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Hickey KT, Reiffel J, Sciacca RR, Whang W, Biviano A, Baumeister M, Castillo C, Talathothi J, Garan H. Correlating perceived arrhythmia symptoms and quality of life in an older population with heart failure: a prospective, single centre, urban clinic study. J Clin Nurs 2013; 22:434-44. [PMID: 23301579 PMCID: PMC3748605 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2702.2012.04307.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To determine the relationship between quality of life and perceived self-reported symptoms in an older, ambulatory, urban population living with heart failure. BACKGROUND While arrhythmias in older individuals with heart failure are well documented, the association between perceived arrhythmia symptoms and quality of life is not well-defined. DESIGN Prospective, cross-sectional single-centre study. METHODS A single-centre, prospective study was conducted with heart failure patients recruited from an urban outpatient cardiology clinic in the United States. Fifty-seven patients completed a baseline quality of life survey with 42 of these completing the six-month follow-up survey. Quality of life was evaluated with the SF-36v2(™) and frequency of symptoms with the Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale. Subjects wore an auto triggered cardiac loop monitor (LifeStar AF Express(®) ) for two weeks to document arrhythmias. Data analysis utilised Spearman's rank correlation and logistic regression. RESULTS Baseline and six-month quality of life measures did not correlate with recorded arrhythmias. However, perceptions of diminished general health correlated significantly with symptoms of exercise intolerance, lightheadedness/dizziness, palpitations and chest pain/pressure. By multivariable logistic regression, more severe perceived episodes, symptoms of exercise intolerance and lightheadedness/dizziness were independently associated with diminished quality of life. CONCLUSION Quality of life was significantly worse in patients with perceptions of severe arrhythmic episodes and in those with symptoms of dizziness and exercise intolerance. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The findings of this study indicate that symptomatic heart failure patients suffer from poor quality of life and that interventions are needed to improve quality of life and decrease symptom severity. Nurses who care for heart failure patients play an essential role in symptom evaluation and management and could significantly improve overall quality of life in these patients by carefully evaluating symptomatology and testing interventions and educational programmes aimed at improving quality of life.
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Trovato GM, Rollo VC, Martines GF, Catalano D, Trovato FM, Sperandeo M. Thoracic ultrasound in the differential diagnosis of severe dyspnea: a reappraisal. Int J Cardiol 2012; 167:1081-3. [PMID: 23167999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.10.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Clark AM, Savard LA, Spaling MA, Heath S, Duncan AS, Spiers JA. Understanding help-seeking decisions in people with heart failure: a qualitative systematic review. Int J Nurs Stud 2012; 49:1582-97. [PMID: 22721677 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2012.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Revised: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the process of help-seeking among heart failure patients from the perspectives of patients, caregivers and health professionals. DESIGN Systematic review using qualitative meta-synthesis. METHODS A systematic search (20th May 2011) was conducted to identify studies published in English as full papers ≥1995 reporting primary qualitative data with extractable heart failure-specific data or themes related to help-seeking in patients, caregivers or health professionals. Databases searched were: CINAHL, Medline, PsycInfo, Social Science Citation Index, Embase, Social policy/Practice, SocIndex, Ageline, Health Source Nursing, Scopus; additionally, we consulted with experts and manually searched references. RESULTS 58 studies (990 patients; 274 female, 527 male, 189 sex not described; 229 caregivers, 79 health professionals) were included. Heart failure help-seeking was embedded in daily experiences of heart failure but ongoing symptoms were confusing, ambiguous and disruptive; little support was available from professionals to interpret the presence and significance of fluctuations in symptoms for help-seeking. Other significant barriers to help-seeking were: avoidance-based coping, fear of hospitals and misplaced reluctance to be burdensome. Help-seeking was facilitated by good involvement and frank communication between patients, caregivers and health professionals and the presence of a sense of elevated personal risk. CONCLUSION Health services should harness primary care providers and support patients and caregivers to prioritize development of objective symptom monitoring skills, recognize and personally assimilate the elevated risks of heart failure and help-seeking delays and discourage avoidance-based coping and unwarranted concerns that downplay the significance of heart failure and urgency to address symptoms.
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15
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Jurgens CY, Shurpin KM, Gumersell KA. Challenges and Strategies for Heart Failure Symptom Management in Older Adults. J Gerontol Nurs 2010; 36:24-33. [DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20100930-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Albert N, Trochelman K, Li J, Lin S. Signs and symptoms of heart failure: are you asking the right questions? Am J Crit Care 2010; 19:443-52. [PMID: 19940253 DOI: 10.4037/ajcc2009314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients may not verbalize common and atypical signs and symptoms of heart failure and may not understand their association with worsening disease and treatments. OBJECTIVES To examine prevalence of signs and symptoms relative to demographics, care setting, and functional class. METHODS A convenience sample of 276 patients (164 ambulatory, 112 hospitalized) with systolic heart failure completed a 1-page checklist of signs and symptoms experienced in the preceding 7 days (ambulatory) or in the 7 days before hospitalization. Demographic and medical history data were collected. RESULTS Mean age was 61.6 (SD, 14.8) years, 65% were male, 58% were white, and 45% had ischemic cardiomyopathy. Hospitalized patients reported more sudden weight gain, weight loss, severe cough, low/orthostatic blood pressure, profound fatigue, decreased exercise, restlessness/confusion, irregular pulse, and palpitations (all P < .05). Patients in functional class IV reported more atypical signs and symptoms of heart failure (severe cough, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite, and restlessness, confusion, or fainting, all P <or= .001). Sudden weight gain increased from 5% in functional class I to 37.5% in functional class IV (P < .001). Dyspnea occurred in all functional classes (98%-100%) and both settings (92%-100%). Profound fatigue was associated with worsening functional class (P < .001) and hospital setting (P = .001); paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea was associated with functional class IV (P = .02) and hospital setting (P < .001). CONCLUSION Profound fatigue is more reliable than dyspnea as an indicator of functional class. Nurses must recognize atypical signs and symptoms of worsening functional class to determine clinical status and facilitate patient care decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Albert
- Nancy Albert is director of nursing research and innovation in the Nursing Institute and a clinical nurse specialist in the Kaufman Center for Heart Failure, Kathleen Trochelman is a nurse researcher in nursing research and innovation at the Nursing Institute, and Jianbo Li is a statistician and Songhua Lin is a statistical programmer, both in Quantitative Health Sciences, at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Kathleen Trochelman
- Nancy Albert is director of nursing research and innovation in the Nursing Institute and a clinical nurse specialist in the Kaufman Center for Heart Failure, Kathleen Trochelman is a nurse researcher in nursing research and innovation at the Nursing Institute, and Jianbo Li is a statistician and Songhua Lin is a statistical programmer, both in Quantitative Health Sciences, at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jianbo Li
- Nancy Albert is director of nursing research and innovation in the Nursing Institute and a clinical nurse specialist in the Kaufman Center for Heart Failure, Kathleen Trochelman is a nurse researcher in nursing research and innovation at the Nursing Institute, and Jianbo Li is a statistician and Songhua Lin is a statistical programmer, both in Quantitative Health Sciences, at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Songhua Lin
- Nancy Albert is director of nursing research and innovation in the Nursing Institute and a clinical nurse specialist in the Kaufman Center for Heart Failure, Kathleen Trochelman is a nurse researcher in nursing research and innovation at the Nursing Institute, and Jianbo Li is a statistician and Songhua Lin is a statistical programmer, both in Quantitative Health Sciences, at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio
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17
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Jurgens CY, Moser DK, Armola R, Carlson B, Sethares K, Riegel B. Symptom clusters of heart failure. Res Nurs Health 2009; 32:551-60. [PMID: 19650069 PMCID: PMC3234105 DOI: 10.1002/nur.20343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Patients with heart failure (HF) report multiple symptoms. Change in symptoms is an indicator of HF decompensation. Patients have difficulty differentiating HF symptoms from comorbid illness or aging. The study purpose was to identify the number, type, and combination of symptoms in hospitalized HF patients and test relationships with comorbid illness and age. A secondary analysis from a HF registry (N = 687) was conducted. The sample was 51.7% female, mean age 71 +/- 12.5 years. The theory of unpleasant symptoms informed the study regarding the multidimensional nature of symptoms. Factor analysis of nine items from the Minnesota Living with HF Questionnaire resulted in three factors, acute and chronic volume overload and emotional distress. Clusters occurred more frequently in older patients, but caused less impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrine Y Jurgens
- School of Nursing, Stony Brook University, HSC L2-223, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8240, USA
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18
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Williams M, Cafarella P, Olds T, Petkov J, Frith P. The language of breathlessness differentiates between patients with COPD and age-matched adults. Chest 2008; 134:489-496. [PMID: 18490404 DOI: 10.1378/chest.07-2916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND If descriptors of the sensation of breathlessness are able to differentiate between medical conditions, the language of breathlessness could potentially have a role in differential diagnosis. This study investigated whether the language used to describe the sensation of breathlessness accurately categorized older individuals with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD. METHODS Using a parallel-group design, participants with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD volunteered words and phrases and endorsed up to three statements to describe their sensation of breathlessness. Cluster analysis (v-fold cross-validation) was applied, and subjects were clustered by their choice of words. Cluster membership was then compared to original group membership (COPD vs non-COPD), and predictive power was assessed. RESULTS Groups were similar for age and gender (COPD, n = 94; 48 men; mean age, 70 +/- 10 years [+/- SD]; vs non-COPD, n = 55; 21 men; mean age, 69 +/- 13 years) but differed significantly in breathlessness-related impairment, intensity, and quality of life (p < 0.0001). Cluster membership corresponded accurately with original group classifications (volunteered, 85%; and up to three statements, 68% agreement). Classification based on a single best descriptor (volunteered [62%] or endorsed [55%]) was less accurate for group membership. CONCLUSIONS Language used to describe the sensation of breathlessness differentiated people with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD when descriptors were not limited to a single best word or statement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Williams
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide.
| | - Paul Cafarella
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Repatriation General Hospital, Daw Park, Adelaide
| | - Timothy Olds
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide
| | - John Petkov
- Applied Statistics Unit, University of South Australia, Whyalla Campus, Whyalla
| | - Peter Frith
- Respiratory Services, Repatriation General Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre, Repatriation General Hospital, Daw Park, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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19
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Patel H, Shafazand M, Schaufelberger M, Ekman I. Reasons for seeking acute care in chronic heart failure. Eur J Heart Fail 2007; 9:702-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejheart.2006.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2006] [Revised: 09/13/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Harshida Patel
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences; Sahlgrenska Academy at Göteborg University; Sweden
- The Vårdal Institute; Göteborg University; Göteborg Sweden
| | - Masoud Shafazand
- Institute of Medicine; Sahlgrenska UniversitetssjukhusetÖstra; Göteborg Sweden
| | | | - Inger Ekman
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences; Sahlgrenska Academy at Göteborg University; Sweden
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20
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21
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Coats AJ. Dyspnoea in CHF and COPD. Int J Cardiol 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2005.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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22
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Segal DI, O'Hanlon D, Rahman N, McCarthy DJ, Gibbs JSR. Incorporating palliative care into heart failure management: a new model of care. Int J Palliat Nurs 2005; 11:135-6. [PMID: 15966456 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2005.11.3.18033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diane I Segal
- Cardiology Department, 5th Floor, Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF, UK.
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