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An important component of recovery: cardiac rehabilitation

Dr. Larry Antonucci's Blog Posts

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Cardiac rehabilitation is an important component in the recovery process following a heart attack, heart surgery, coronary artery bypass, heart valve replacement or repair, angioplasty or stenting. The comprehensive rehabilitation program includes individualized exercise plans, education and behavioral modification to help patients reduce their risk factors and recover. At Lee Health, we have a team of registered nurses and exercise physiologists who help patients take charge, recover and live full and active lives.

“Research shows that patients who complete the program have better health outcomes, including reduced re-hospitalizations, better long-term survival, improved endurance and strength and a better quality of life,” explains Marion Harris-Barter, RN, BSN, M.Ed., CCRP, FAACVPR , Lee Health’s system director, cardiac rehabilitation.

If your heart condition requires a hospital stay, then cardiac rehabilitation starts in the hospital. “While you are still in the hospital, a registered nurse visits and educates you on your diagnosis, risk factors and the importance of attending and completing your cardiac rehab program,” Marion says. “Your physician will usually make a referral to outpatient cardiac rehab when you are discharged from the hospital. We encourage patients to begin outpatient cardiac rehab within two to four weeks after discharge from the hospital.”

Outpatient cardiac rehabilitation starts with an orientation and a one-on-one evaluation to determine individualized goals and an exercise prescription. Marion stresses that this phase of cardiac rehab is medically supervised, so participants can have peace of mind knowing that their hearts are carefully monitored during exercise. Along with exercise, outpatient cardiac rehab includes education and support and is typically completed in 36 sessions.

As part of National Heart Month and in honor of Cardiac Rehabilitation Week (which was last week), we are proud to shine the spotlight on our talented and caring cardiac rehabilitation teams and their efforts in supporting healthier hearts and lives.

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