Cognitive impairment and congestive heart failure.
BACKGROUND
The course of heart failure can be unpredictable and uncontrolled symptoms are the main problem. This review analyses the current literature surrounding cognitive impairment and heart failure with special emphasis on self-management and quality of life. It attempts to explain the extent to which compliance and self-management contribute to acute hospitalisation, and to what extent the patient's mental capability influences compliance with treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The literature identifies a link between congestive heart failure and cognitive impairment.
Coronary Care Unit, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool. joanne.lackey@aht.nwest.nhs.uk
Joanne
J
Lackey
D000368:Aged; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000451:nursing*; D015897:Comorbidity; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010349:Patient Compliance; D012648:Self Care