Heart Failure Self-Management Plan

Daily Monitoring

Weight Monitoring

• Weigh yourself every morning after urinating and before breakfast
• Use the same scale on a flat surface
• Record your weight daily
• Contact your healthcare provider if you gain:
  • More than 2 pounds in 24 hours
  • More than 5 pounds in a week

Symptom Monitoring

Check daily for:

• Increased shortness of breath
• Swelling in feet, ankles, legs, or stomach
• Feeling more tired or weak than usual
• Difficulty breathing when lying flat
• New or worsening cough
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Medication Management

Daily Medications

• Take all medications exactly as prescribed
• Never skip doses or stop medications without consulting your doctor
• Use a pill organizer if needed
• Keep an up-to-date medication list

Dietary Guidelines

Sodium Restriction

• Limit sodium to 2,000mg per day
• Avoid adding salt while cooking or at the table
• Read food labels carefully
• Choose fresh foods over processed ones

Fluid Management

• Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for fluid intake
• Typical limit: 1.5-2 liters (6-8 cups) per day
• Include all liquids in this count

Physical Activity

Exercise Guidelines

• Start slowly and gradually increase activity
• Aim for regular, moderate exercise
• Stop if you experience:
  • Chest pain
  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Dizziness

Emergency Action Plan

Call 911 if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Severe shortness of breath
• Fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat with weakness

Contact Your Healthcare Provider if:

• Your symptoms are getting worse
• You have questions about your treatment plan
• You experience medication side effects

Follow-up Care

• Keep all scheduled appointments
• Bring your symptom and weight logs to visits
• Update your medication list regularly
• Get recommended vaccinations