Symptom Management and Factors Related to Nurses’ Attitudes toward Terminally Ill Patients with Congestive Heart Failure

ABSTRACT

<p>Objectives: This study examined symptom assessments and non-pharmacological interventions to relieve symptoms among heart failure patients, and factors related to nurses’ attitudes towards terminal care. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 180 nurses using a questionnaire. Results: Symptom assessments were conducted about 80% of the times for all 14 symptoms of congestive heart failure. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as adjustment in daily life, consideration of positioning and movement in daily life, and environment adjustment, were frequently conducted. Nurses who attended palliative care seminars indicated more positive attitudes toward terminal care including a positive attitude toward caring for dying persons. Low points in difficulties with terminal care reflected nurses’ knowledge and skills related to high points in positive attitudes toward caring for dying persons. Conclusion: These results suggest that educational programs are required for nurses providing palliative care for patients with heart failure to enhance nurses’ attitudes towards terminal care and to promote palliative care practice. </p>