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HF Self-Management skills illustrated in the DVDs (viewed prior to discussion) are then practiced during the clinic appointment. |
The first four DVDs include topics of overall HF self-management, medications, low sodium diet, exercise, stress and smoking reduction. The Booster (reinforcement) DVD, shown at the 6 month clinic visit, reviews previous content and adds information about cardiac devices.
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Daily HF Monitoring Checklist and Early Symptom Reporting list. Daily HF self-monitoring one-page, double-sided checklist chart used for 12 weeks to establish a habit of self-monitoring. |
Patients are directed to:
Checklists for recording daily weight, sodium intake, medication intake, prescribed exercise, and the reporting of HF signs and symptoms. Also the mood checklist guides monitoring emotions and prompts engagement in mood elevating activities and discussion with professionals. (See Figure 2).
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List of common signs and symptoms associated with worsening HF and intolerance to HF medication that prompts early recognition and reporting of decompensation. |
Shortness of breath; at rest, with exertion, lying flat, at night while sleeping, Exercise intolerance, leg cramps. Cough (dry or productive). Appetite loss and or Nausea. Weight gain, weight loss. (swelling in abdomen or ankles); Fatigue, loss of energy. Dizziness, lightheadedness. Chest, arm, shoulder, stomach pain. Nearly fainting (pre-syncope). Fainting (syncope). Palpitations, fast or irregular heartbeats.
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Other materials provided and used for practice in the group sessions |
Wallet cards with medication list and emergency telephone numbers. A weekly pill-sorter box medication side effects list. Low-sodium foods list and recipe book. Stress reduction and smoking cessation guides/referrals.
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