Factors influencing the perception of stress in patients with heart failure

According to the definition of stress, heart failure is a stress factor because of the strains placed upon a person. Our study aims to investigate the level of stress perceived by 150 patients. The Perceived Stress Questionnaire was used to assess the stress level and to evaluate the frequency of its types. Analysis of the results showed increased levels of stress in all patients and several personal and clinical parameters that influence the patients' perception of stress. Addressing these (often neglected) aspects of care can be important to the rehabilitation process or the emotional and mental well-being of the patients. (C) 2014 Anca-Daniela Farca. and Laura-Elena Nastasa. Published by Elsevier Ltd.