Exercise Interventions for Special Populations

Question 1

goals for outpatient cardiac rehab (Phase II)

Answer 1

1. develop and assist patient in implementing safe and effective exercise and lifestyle activity program
2. provide supervision and monitoring to detect change in physical status and date for health care provider to enhance medical management
3. return patient to vocational/recreational activity or modify activities
4. provide patient and family education to optimize secondary prevention (risk factor modification) through lifestyle modification and medication

Question 2

special considerations- sternotomy

Answer 2

sternal bone healing usually achieved by 8 weeks
care for first 8-12 weeks post CABG- evaluate for infection, healing, and stability
no heavy exertion for upper body
no standard weight limits because patients vary in strength and healing
ROM activities and progress as tolerated
no symptoms of sternal instability as detected by movement in sternum, pain, cracking, or popping

Question 3

Special Considerations- Cardiac Transplant

Answer 3

for several months after surgery, transplanted heart does not respond normally to sympathetic stimulation
HR at rest is elevated and HR response to exercise abnormal with delayed increase in HR during exercise with HRpeak below normal
No THR - extended warmup and cooldown