Analysis of the current situation and influencing factors of internal perception in patients with chronic heart failure at the county level

Aim: To explore the status of internal perception in patients with chronic heart failure and its influencing factors, providing a theoretical basis for formulating targeted intervention measures. Methods: Using convenience sampling, 406 CHF patients admitted to six county hospitals 'cardiology departments in Nantong City from January to March 2025 were selected as research subjects. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted using general information questionnaires, Multidimensional Internal Perception Assessment Questionnaire, Social Support Scale, Self-Rating Depression Scale, and Memorial Heart Failure Symptom Assessment. Univariate analysis and multivariate linear regression were used to investigate the influencing factors of internal perception in CHF patients. Results: The total score of MAIA-2C for CHF patients was (108.44±15.93), indicating an above-median level. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that place of residence, number of hospitalizations due to heart failure in the past year, BMI, depression, social support, and symptom burden were independent influencing factors of internal perception in CHF patients. Conclusion: The internal perception ability of CHF patients is influenced by multiple factors, including place of residence, number of hospitalizations due to heart failure in the past year, BMI, depression, social support, and symptom burden. In clinical practice, attention should be paid to the level of internal perception in patients, and personalized intervention strategies should be developed based on these influencing factors to enhance patients' self-management capabilities and quality of life.