Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious condition in which the heart is not pumping well enough. In late stages of the disease, the heart is unable to meet the body’s demand for oxygen. Congestive heart failure is so named because the heart is failing to pump effi ciently, which often results in congestion in the lungs. As a result, the heart tries to work harder, which only makes the problem worse. This activity discusses congestive heart failure, causes of CHF, and factors that contribute to CHF and differentiates the symptoms of left-sided versus right-sided heart failure. The signs and symptoms of heart failure will also be covered. Part two of this program will focus on treatment goals for patients with congestive heart failure.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• define and describe congestive heart failure.
• identify the physiological changes that occur with congestive heart failure.
• list the causes and contributing factors to congestive heart failure.
• state the signs and symptoms of heart failure.