A survey of views and opinions of health professionals managing thirst in chronic heart failure

Thirst is a common and burdensome symptom of chronic heart failure (CHF) which affects adherence to self-care practices specifically fluid restriction. Despite this, there is no standard clinical practice for managing the symptom of thirst. The aim is to identify the current strategies recommended by health professionals to help relieve thirst in CHF patients and their perceived usefulness of these strategies. A survey was distributed to attendees of the 8th Annual Scientific Meeting of Australasian Cardiovascular Nursing College. There were 42 of 70 respondents to the survey. The majority (33 of 40; 82.5%) had recommended various strategies to alleviate thirst. The most recommended strategy was ice chips (36 of 38; 94.7%). Overall, the respondents reported ‘some use’ in all of the strategies. Information from this survey may help in the incorporation of thirst-relieving strategies into evidence-based guidelines; further improving the quality of care of patients.