The heart is an essential organ in the body, and any damage or risks that could compromise its function could be catastrophic, if not deadly. This is why cardiac rehab is crucial, whether it’s a heart attack or heart surgery for a heart condition. This customised medical supervision programme includes counselling exercises, education and support that helps you recover from a heart problem.
It helps patients with heart disease restore their heart function and improve their overall health and well-being. Furthermore, it’s usually under the supervision of a team of healthcare professionals, like physicians, nurses, and exercise specialists. The cardiac rehabilitation programme is divided into the following phases.
In-Patient Phase
The in-patient phase, also known as the acute phase of cardiac rehabilitation, typically starts in the hospital when the patient encounters a heart problem. Here, the patients receive education and counselling on managing their condition and preventing future cardiac events. This phase usually begins shortly after a patient’s heart condition diagnosis or has undergone a cardiac event, like heart surgery or heart attack. The in-patient phase is often short and focuses on educating patients about their condition, medication management, lifestyle changes, and what to expect during rehabilitation.
During this phase, healthcare professionals will often perform an initial assessment of the patient’s cardiovascular health, including measuring their blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs. Patients may also undergo diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress test. This is to assess their heart function and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Outpatient Phase
The outpatient phase, also known as the subacute phase of the cardiac rehabilitation programme, usually begins after the patient’s hospital discharge. This phase involves ongoing exercise training, which may include walking, cycling, or other types of aerobic exercise. Additionally, strength training and flexibility exercises are also crucial. Patients work with a team of healthcare professionals, including an exercise specialist, to develop an individualised exercise program tailored to their specific needs and fitness level.
In addition, to exercise, the outpatient phase of cardiac rehabilitation also includes education and counselling on lifestyle changes, for instance,
- healthy eating habits,
- smoking cessation,
- stress management, and
- medication management.
Patients may also receive emotional support and counselling to help them cope with their heart condition’s emotional and psychological impact.
Maintenance Phase
This is the last phase of cardiac rehab and can last for several months or even years, depending on the patient’s needs and goals. Regular exercise is an essential part of the maintenance phase. This is because it helps maintain the gains made during the earlier phases and continues to improve cardiovascular health. Patients may work with a professional physiotherapist to create a personalised exercise plan that includes aerobic and strength training exercises. They may also be encouraged to engage in physical activity outside the structured exercise program, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
For patients with heart disease covered under NDIS, it may be helpful to search for an NDIS physio near me to find a physiotherapist who can assist with cardiac rehabilitation. These healthcare professionals can work with patients to develop personalised exercise and education plans to help them manage their condition and improve their overall health and well-being. They can also provide ongoing support and guidance during maintenance to help patients stay on track with their goals.
Cardiac rehabilitation has proven to improve outcomes for patients with heart disease, including reducing the risk of future cardiac events, improving exercise capacity and quality of life, and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Patients with heart disease need to work with their healthcare provider to determine if cardiac rehabilitation is appropriate. Cardiac rehab aims at improving the overall quality of life. Maintaining the programme can lead to improved heart conditions and better health.
