A survey of views and opinions of health professionals managing thirst in chronic heart failure

Sabine M. Allida, Sally C. Inglis, Patricia M. Davidson, Christopher S. Hayward, Sajad Shehab, Phillip J. Newton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Thirst is a common and burdensome symptom of chronic heart failure (CHF) which affects adherence to self-care practices specifically fluid restriction. Despite this, there is no standard clinical practice for managing the symptom of thirst. Aims and objectives: The aim is to identify the current strategies recommended by health professionals to help relieve thirst in CHF patients and their perceived usefulness of these strategies. Methods: A survey was distributed to attendees of the 8th Annual Scientific Meeting of Australasian Cardiovascular Nursing College. Results: There were 42 of 70 respondents to the survey. The majority (33 of 40; 82.5%) had recommended various strategies to alleviate thirst. The most recommended strategy was ice chips (36 of 38; 94.7%). Overall, the respondents reported ‘some use’ in all of the strategies. Conclusion: Information from this survey may help in the incorporation of thirst-relieving strategies into evidence-based guidelines; further improving the quality of care of patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)244-252
Number of pages9
JournalContemporary Nurse
Volume52
Issue number2-3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 6 2016

Keywords

  • cardiovascular
  • self-care
  • survey
  • symptom control

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Nursing

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