Clinically-guided strategy. Therapeutic decisions for patients assigned to the conventional treatment were based on recommendations from international clinical practice guidelines. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-blockers use and optimization were encouraged. Standard non-pharmacological counseling was also provided by CHF trained nurses during the first month of follow-up. Diuretic therapy was exclusively based on the presence and intensity of clinical findings suggestive of pulmonary and/or systemic congestion. Clinically oriented patients also underwent a baseline and a final echocardiogram, but the decision-making team was unaware of this data throughout the protocol.