The Cardiac Rehabilitation team includes physicians, nurses, physical therapists, a dietitian, a social worker, and other staff members. The team works closely with you to help you make decisions about your lifestyle. They regard you not only as a heart patient, but also as a person, wishing to live a full life. The team designs an exercise program that suits each patient's ability and endurance and gradually builds cardiovascular fitness. Each early morning, mid-morning or early evening exercise session receives close supervision from a registered nurse with cardiac care experience, a registered physical therapist, and the availability of an Emerson physician.
Patients begin by exercising at the hospital.
The nutritionist also provides continuing support and instruction once a week during the exercise class. Once a week following the exercise period, patients, family members, and staff meet for a lecture and discussion of relevant topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, stress, medication, and the impact of heart disease on individuals and families. In addition to the prepared lectures by staff, participants share information and concerns about the risk factors associated with heart disease. They plan ways to incorporate regular exercise, food, nutrition, and stress management into everyday life. These support persons meet as a group for weekly discussions with the social worker and also participate in the joint education sessions with patients and staff members.