The Role of the Nurse in the Optimal Care of Patients with Heart Failure

Abstract

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical condition that requires comprehensive medical care, consisting of supervision by a cardiologist, primary care physician (PCP), nurse practitioner and nutritionist. A physiotherapist, pharmacologist play a no less important role, and psychological support for both the patient himself and his family can be equally helpful, which can positively influence the treatment process. A significant problem in the care of patients with HF are repeated hospitalizations, which can result from the progression of the disease itself, but also from suboptimal therapy, comorbidities or noncompliance. As each hospitalization worsens the patient's prognosis, but just as importantly, generates high costs, outpatient care options involving different groups of medical personnel are being sought to improve the prognosis and quality of life of HF patients, but also reduce the cost of care. Currently, 90% of the budget for HF care is consumed by hospitalizations. This article aims to show how the competencies and tasks of a nurse can be used in the care and education of a patient with HF. The role of the nurse in the outpatient care of patients with HF is emphasized by the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology, resulting in the creation of the Education and Certification Program for Heart Failure Nurses in Poland under the auspices of the Polish Cardiac Society, the Heart Failure Association, the Supreme Chamber of Nurses and Midwives.