Symptom Recognition Improves Self-care in Patients With Heart Failure.

The patient receives a leaflet, which includes information about HF, primary symptoms, awareness of its detection and the fluid management plan. It also receives a weight diary, which helps him/her recall weight fluctuation and contact the nurse or doctor to call for help in a previous stage and avoid hospitalisation. Patients have to explain what they understand by HF, on follow-ups contacts, which are the main symptoms, if they are experiencing any of them and which difficulties managing fluid restriction and weight control. The leading investigator validates the information and teaches back contents if required.