Quality of life and disease acceptance in patients with heart failure – implications for contemporary nursing and healthcare

Abstract

Background. Heart failure remains one of the major challenges for modern healthcare systems, significantly impairing physical, psychological, and social functioning. Quality of life and disease acceptance are crucial determinants influencing treatment outcomes, adherence, and the risk of rehospitalization. Objectives. The study aimed to evaluate how the quality of life of patients with heart failure affects disease acceptance and to identify clinical and behavioral factors associated with these parameters. Material and methods. The study included 100 patients hospitalized at the University Clinical Hospital, Institute of Heart Diseases in Wrocław. The Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), WHOQoL-BREF, and an author-designed sociodemographic questionnaire were used. Data were analyzed using R software. Results. There was a significant relationship between quality of life and disease acceptance. A higher number of rehospitalizations was associated with lower acceptance, whereas longer time since diagnosis improved acceptance. Alcohol consumption and ICD implantation negatively affected quality of life. Older patients demonstrated higher emotional adaptation and more favorable self-perceived health. Conclusions. Contemporary nursing should adopt a holistic approach focused on health education, psychological support, and monitoring factors increasing the risk of rehospitalization. Routine assessment of quality of life and disease acceptance should be integrated into daily clinical practice.