1st February 2006
Heart Failure Society of America, Inc
Summary, Abstract

Source: National Guidelines Clearinghouse

GUIDELINE OBJECTIVE(S)

To provide recommendations for the nonpharmacologic management and health care maintenance in patients with chronic heart failure

TARGET POPULATION

Patients with chronic heart failure

INTERVENTIONS AND PRACTICES CONSIDERED

1. Dietary instruction
2. Sodium restriction
3. Daily fluid intake restriction
4. Measurement of nitrogen balance, caloric intake, and prealbumin
5. Multivitamin-mineral supplementation
6. Document type and dose of naturoceutical products
7. Ensure continuous positive airway pressure
8. Identify treatable conditions
9. Screen for endogenous pr prolonged reactive depression
10. Nonpharmacologic techniques for stress reduction
11. Treatment for sexual dysfunction
12. Counseling regarding smoking cessation, limiting alcohol consumption, and discontinuing illicit drug usage
13. Pneumococcal vaccine and annual influenza vaccination
14. Assess for employability

Note: The following were considered, but not recommended:

• Supplemental oxygen for patients with heart failure in the absence of an underlying pulmonary disease
• Endocarditis prophylaxis with the diagnosis of heart failure alone
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, in patients with chronic heart failure

MAJOR OUTCOMES CONSIDERED

• Patient stability
• Daily functional capacity
• Mortality
• Quality of life