PALLIATIVE CARE IN PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE: STRATEGIES AND IMPACTS ON CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Objective: To analyze, based on the available literature, the integration and management of palliative care in patients with heart failure, focusing on comfort and clinical outcomes. Method: This study consists of an integrative literature review using the databases LILACS, CAPES, SCIELO, and PUBMED, covering the period from 2019 to 2024. The descriptors used were "palliative care," "nursing care," "heart failure," and "cardiac failure." The research was conducted systematically and organized according to previously defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 61 relevant articles were found, of which 12 were selected after thorough screening and content analysis. Results and Discussion: The analyzed studies demonstrated that the early introduction of palliative care in patients with heart failure improves quality of life, reduces hospitalizations, and promotes a more patient-centered approach. They also revealed that inadequate integration of palliative care negatively impacts treatment and patient well-being. It was observed that educational practices, interdisciplinary protocols, and the strengthening of patient autonomy are effective strategies for consolidating more humane and efficient care management, especially in intensive care units.