Communication with advanced heart failure patients

Abstract

Patients with heart failure face a life-limiting condition wherein communicating about treatment and prognosis is necessary. Communication with advanced heart failure patients is a complex process, referred to as one of the so-called communication challenges, which is often straining and frustrating for the physician. This process also involves discussions of particularly difficult issues in the course of treatment. The article discusses a specific nature of communicating with advanced heart failure patients in the context of their needs and capabilities. It also highlights topics of particular importance that need to be addressed in such discussions and presents patient-reported communication problems. The paper examines factors hindering communication with patients, presents strategies applied by specialist that help avoid discussions with patients and their families, and heart failure-specific communication situations. The paper presents a proposal for medical doctors of how to prepare for a discussion with patients with advanced heart failure and provides guidelines for an interview.