Caring for special populations: total pain theory in advanced heart failure: applications to research and practice

Abstract

Topic: Total pain theory.

Purpose: Describe total pain theory and apply it to research and practice in advanced heart failure (HF).

Source of information: Total pain theory provides a holistic perspective for improving care, especially at the end of life. In advanced HF, multiple domains of well-being known to influence pain perception are adversely affected by declining health and increasing frailty. A conceptual framework is suggested which addresses domains of well-being identified by total pain theory.

Conclusion: By applying total pain theory, providers may be more effective in mitigating the suffering of individuals with progressive, life-limiting diseases.

Figures

Figure 1

Pain impacts quality of life. Adapted with permission from Haworth Press (Ferrell, Grant, Padilla, Vermuri, & Rhiner, 1991).