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.