Cardiac Rehabilitation is proven to keep people with heart problems out of hospital and reduce their risk of death from heart conditions.
This Heart Week, we are highlighting the significant role ‘cardiac rehab’ plays after a heart event, procedure, or the diagnosis of a heart condition.
“People who go to cardiac rehab are more likely to take their medication, are likely to control their risk factors better, are less likely to come back into hospital, and are more likely to enjoy more productive lives,” said Professor Stephen Nicholls, Program Director at the Victorian Heart Hospital.
“Cardiac rehab clinics are critical. We need more people to attend them.”
Photo: Prof Stephen Nicholls, Program Director at VHH
Cardiac rehab is a program of exercise, education and support led by health professionals and personalised to strengthen your heart.
Monash Health operates cardiac rehabilitation programs at a number of its centres.
At the Victorian Heart Hospital, located at Monash University’s Clayton Campus, the Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation team helps inpatients and discharged patients make long-term lifestyle changes so they can live longer, healthier lives.
Clients are encouraged to attend weekly for a four or eight-week program, that can be flexibly offered in person, group or individual, via telehealth or independent programs.
“I was apprehensive about doing rehab. I did not know what it was all about,” said client Ian Storey.
“But the exercise is good for me. And the people here all share one common thing – we all have a heart problem.”
Photo: Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic client Ian Storey
The team includes nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, pharmacists, social workers, and cardiologists.
“We take a holistic approach,” said Shihoko Pearson, Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation Clinical Lead.
“We are a multi-disciplinary team that manages every aspect of their care.”
Photo: Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation Clinical Lead Shihoko Pearson
Often cardiac patients are sent home on several medications. It can be overwhelming for them.
“At the education sessions, we go through their medications explaining what they are for, potential side effects and monitoring points,” said Judy Duong, Pharmacy Team Leader.
“It is a great session, because patients end up asking lots of questions.”
Photo: Pharmacy Team Leader Judy Duong at the VHH
After a heart event or procedure people can be nervous about exercising. The cardiac rehab program gives them confidence to get moving.
“Clients know that we will guide them and let them know if they are doing something they are not supposed to. So, they feel happier participating,” said Physiotherapist Hugh Leung.
“We perform assessments at the start of the program and also at the end, so clients can see how much they have progressed.”
Photo: Nurse Lee Manu Madhav monitors clients during exercise sessions
At each session, a nurse is on hand to monitor attendees.
“I do observations at the start of each exercise program to check blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen level,” said Nurse Lee Manu Madhav.
“Then I keep on assessing, making sure everything is within normal limits.”
Client Maureen Corcoran says the clinic has been a “lifesaver” for her.
“The staff advice and friendship – it has just been great,” she said.
“I would recommend it. If you have had a heart attack you must do rehab.”
Photo: Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic client Maureen Corcoran
The Victorian Heart Hospital is operated by Monash Health, in partnership with Monash University.