The cardiac rehabilitation program is designed to teach, support, and encourage patients as they recover from heart problems. 

Participation in the cardiac rehab program is appropriate for people who have had any of the following cardiac difficulties or procedures:

• Coronary artery bypass
• Heart attack
• Balloon angioplasty
• Stint placement
• Valve replacement
• Stable angina
• Heart transplant

After a thorough examination, a customized multidisciplinary treatment team is assigned. Working with the patient, this team of professionals then develops the individualized plan of care to enable each patient to achieve his or her maximum potential of recovery.

During phase one of the cardiac rehabilitation program, the inpatient phase, educational classes are offered to the patient.  Topics include:

• Understanding coronary artery disease
• Signals and actions of a heart attack/angina
• Congestive heart failure
• Post-bypass discharge information
• Home exercise prescription
• Cholesterol
• Stress
• High blood pressure
• Smoking cessation

During supervised exercise sessions, patients receive training about exercise progression and components of safe, effective exercise.

The phase two program is designed as an outpatient program for people who need a monitored, physician-supervised exercise program.  Participating three times a week—Monday, Wednesday, and Friday—patients benefit from having their heart rates, blood pressures, and heart rhythms monitored during exercise.  Education is a major part of the outpatient program.  Diet analysis and instructions are also offered by a hospital dietitian.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes are also available for cardiac rehab participants' spouses and significant others.

For additional information, call the cardiac rehab center at 501-380-3258.