Depression and Heart Failure Assessment, Treatment, and Interventions to Improve Self-Care Behaviors.

Many people with heart failure also have untreated depression. Because depression can lead to worse self-care and increased morbidity and mortality for patients with heart failure, identification and treatment are essential. Nurses in clinic and inpatient settings are uniquely positioned to implement depression screening and advocate for evidence-based treatment for heart failure patients with depression. Treatments may include pharmacologic therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise, including cardiac rehabilitation, and social support. Adequate screening, treatment, and education by nurses have the potential to improve self-care for heart failure patients, thus improving morbidity and mortality of this vulnerable population.