Phase IV Cardiac Rehab Classes
ListenCardiac rehabilitation is an active process that takes place after a heart attack or heart surgery. It aims to restore a patient to, and maintain an optimum level of physical and mental well being. It requires patients to assume responsibility for their own health and well being, and to realise their potential to lead an active life. Cardiac rehabilitation involves a multi-professional team, which could include:
- Medical doctor
- Nurse
- Dietician
- Counsellor
- Exercise physiologist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
4 Phases of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Process
Phase I
This covers the general health advice given during the acute phase of illness. This takes place in hospital, usually in a coronary care unit, after a heart attack or heart surgery.
Length: Approx. 5 – 14 days
Phase II
This is the period after hospitalisation when a patient returns home and is under the care of a GP. During this time, a patient may be contacted by a local Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Specialist Practice Nurse who will provide general health advice. Alternatively, a patient maybe introduced to the heart manual (a self help book).
Length: Approx. 2 – 6 weeks.
Phase III
A patient is invited to attend the out patient rehabilitation exercise and/or health education program when they are deemed fit enough by the hospital medical team.
Phase III rehabilitation classes involve:
- Safe incremental progression of physical activity, under medical supervision
- Health education
- Stress management
- Relaxation
Length: Once a week for approx. 8 – 12 weeks.
Phase IV
Patients graduating from Phase III exercise classes are referred on to local phase IV exercise classes to continue improving their fitness levels.
GP’s or CHD specialist nurses can refer CHD patients to Activate if;
- >6/12 elapsed since acute cardiac event, or
- >6/12 since discharge from Phase III, or
- CHD history but no recent acute event.
The Activate Scheme runs 2 classes per week at Crownwood Community Centre under the Activate umbrella. These exercise classes are instructed by qualified British Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation (BACR) instructors, so patients can be assured they are in safe and knowledgeable hands. Once referred, patients may attend phase IV classes indefinitely or alternatively choose to partake in the exercise referral scheme. Under the supervision of a BACR instructor, regular attendees of phase IV classes find them motivating because of the friendly, social and supportive environment created by exercising regularly with others who have a similar medical background.
If you would like further information about the Phase IV scheme, please feel free to call our office on 01344 482255.
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