Table 2

Core concepts and Sub-concepts

Central Concepts

No of papers (n = 30)

Sub-concepts

1. Impact of CHF on everyday life

Social isolation

20

Feeling abandoned; Physical restrictions; Food and diet; Medication; Fatigue; Relationships with family and friends

Living in fear

16

Uncertainty; Frustrated; Sleep; Work restrictions; Being limited; Behaviour change

Losing a sense of control

15

Symptoms; Being limited; Helplessness; Unpredictable

2. Common patterns of coping strategies

Sharing experiences

13

Practical support; Psychological support; Emotional support; Knowledge; Assistance; Friends/family; Comfort

Being flexible to changing circumstances

14

Coping; Adjustment; Awareness; Acceptance; Making changes

3. Factors influencing self care and/or the provision of good care

Knowledge

17

Knowledge; lack of knowledge; Acquiring information; Self-management; Self care; Emotional benefit; Navigating health services; Access to services

Health Services -- availability and access

3

Time constraints; Communication; Negative experience; Patient satisfaction

Health Services -- continuity and quality of care

15

Advice; Self care; Time constraints; Self care; Trust; Multiple care providers; Conflicting advice; Confusion; Education

Co-morbidity

11

Depression; Diabetes; Arthritis; Dietary restriction; Exercise; Sexual life

Personal Relationships

26

Family; Friends; Sexual life; Peers with CHF; Changing roles; Social isolation

Jeon et al. BMC Health Services Research 2010 10:77   doi:10.1186/1472-6963-10-77