CARDIAC REHABILITATION-PHASE 1 (ACUTE PERIOD, 1-2 WKS)

SUMMARY

1. Begins in CCU soon after arrhythmias, during acute inpatient hospitalization. CHF & ischemia are managed.
2. Exercise tolerance testing for risk stratification & exercise prescription.
3. First 14 days, lasts till discharge from the acute hospital, the only phase that occurs inpatient.

THERAPY
4. Most centers use a modified Wenger program with incremental progression from bed rest to stair climbing (at discharge).
5. Rapid mobilization when safe.
6. Low intensity activity: 1-2 MET. Use bedside commode for toileting (3.6 MET).
7. Avoid isometric exercises (increases HR), Valsalva (promotes arrhythmias), raising legs above heart (increases preload).

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.