Improving Quality of Life for People with Heart / Lung Disease

Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation ProgramPhase I, Phase II, Phase III (Get Up & Go) & Pulmonary Rehab

Cardiac Rehabilitation at Richland Hospital is a comprehensive, three-phase program designed to assist heart patients with their recovery from a heart attack, heart surgery or other heart related procedure. The purpose of the program is to improve the quality of life and restore the heart patient to his/her optimal physical, psychological, occupational, social and recreational status. Benefits include:Increased cardiovascular efficiency and improved physical endurance through safe, supervised exerciseIncreased awareness of coronary disease, its causes, prevention and treatmentDevelopment of a positive approach to the rehabilitation process, both emotionally and physically.

Phase I

The first phase of cardiac rehabilitation begins in the hospital, typically one to three days following a heart event, and continues up until the day of discharge from the hospital. Phase I consists of self-care and progressive exercises including low-level activities, such as walking and/or upper and lower extremity exercises. An education program is also provided to assist the patient in understanding risk factors and coronary heart disease. Nutritional counseling prepares the patient for lifestyle changes he/she will need to make after leaving the hospital.

Phase II

Phase II is an outpatient, hospital-based program that usually lasts six to twelve weeks. It continues and advances the rehabilitative process initiated in Phase I. Participants engage in a monitored program of exercise therapy, education and group support sessions.One-hour exercise sessions are held three times per week. Participants rotate among exercise stations including resistance training, treadmills, arm and bike ergometers and a NuStep stepping machine.A cardiac rehabilitation exercise physiologist and/or nurse work closely with each patient to develop an individualized exercise program based on his/her abilities. Exercises can help to reduce resting heart rate and blood pressure, blood cholesterol, body weight, body fat, and stress, while increasing the capacity for physical activity. Blood pressure, heart rate, heart rhythm and overall response to exercise are monitored carefully to allow a safe, gradual progression of exercise.Cardiac Rehabilitation education classes are also held. Classes aid patients in understanding their heart disease and risk factor modification. Topics include stress reduction, exercise principles, diet modification, anatomy/physiology of the heart, and medications. Family members are welcome to attend Phase II exercise, education and support sessions, as group support and encouragement will reinforce the commitment to a heart healthy lifestyle.

Phase III (Get Up & Go!)

Get Up and Go is an exercise program available to people who want to reduce their risk for developing heart disease and other health problems associated with inactivity. Program participants exercise while supervised by cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialists. Participants rotate among exercise stations including resistance training, treadmills, arm and bike ergometers, and NuStep stepping machines. Heart rates and blood pressures are monitored and exercise sessions are recorded.

Whatever your goals, our exercise physiologists and nurses are here to aid you in reaching them. Exercise sessions are held with the same group members every time which provides a network of group support that serves to reinforce a lifetime commitment to exercise.

What are the benefits to joining the Get Up & Go program?

Staff members are available to answer exercise questions.

Exercise prescription designed especially for each individual

Group support

Medically supervised sessions for people that have some health concerns such as treated heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity

Provides a comfortable and safe environment for participants that are new to exercise.

Appropriate for all ages and levels of condition. Exercise sessions are tailored to YOU!

Variety of equipment available to fit needs of people with and without physical limitations

Great for people who want to develop an exercise program for weight loss, but need help getting started.

 Cost of the program:

$44.00 per month

Classes meet:

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:00 – 8:00 a.m. and 9:45 – 10:45 a.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

More classes may be added based on demand.

For more information on this program, contact the Frank F. Mohr Therapy Center at The Richland Hospital Inc. at 647-6321; extension 2420.