Evaluating Knowledge and Self-care Practicesamong Older Adults with Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract

Study’s purpose: to assess the status of knowledge and self-care practice and their contributing factors among older adults with congestive heart failure.Methodology: a descriptive study conducted at Zagazig University Hospitals, was used. The Study sample was selected purposively which composed of 50 older adults. HF knowledge was measured by the Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale (DHFKS). Self-care practice was measured by the European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior Scale (EHFScBS).Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the influencing factors of older adults' knowledge and self-care practice. Major results: the percentage ofolder patients who had inadequate knowledge was (88%), while the percentage of older patients who had poor practice of self-care behavior was (92%). The educational level was the only statistically significant independent positive predictor of self-car score. The educational level, occupation, and income were statistically significant independent positive predictors of HF knowledge score. Clinical implications:the majority of the older patients had poor knowledge and practice regarding CHF and many influencing factors were identified among them. Recommendations:educational program for CHF older patients with special concern for influencing factors assessed in this study is recommended to improve their knowledge and practices and positive impact on health status.