 |
 |
Cardiac rehabilitation is a customized program of exercise and education. The goals of cardiac rehabilitation are to help lower the risk of a recurrent cardiac event or to reduce the risk of future heart problems. All those add up to a better quality of life.
Chatham Hospital’s program offers regular training sessions that are supervised by registered nurse s and exercise physiologists. A cardiologist from the UNC Health Care System serves as the Medical Director of the program. You individual exercise prescription is reviewed, approved and revised by the Medical Director. A physician is available to care for your medical needs while you are actively participating in an exercise session. A Registered Dietician and a Licensed Professional Counselor will also work with you as part of this program.
This program is designed to be an extension of your primary physician’s care. Your physician will refer you to this program. Your training program will be individualized based on your specific health situation and goals. During your first visit the nurse will do a physical assessment, a nutritional screening, a psychological screening and a fitness assessment. She will devise an exercise program specifically for you that will be reviewed by the Medical Director.
Group exercise sessions allow you to participate with others who share experiences similar to yours. The friendly atmosphere and sharing of experiences help you initiate and maintain lifestyle changes. During exercise, the staff will monitor your heart pattern and blood pressure and adjust your work out accordingly.
Classes are held three times a week. The cardiac nurse will perform a physical screening before each exercise class. She will supervise your exercise classes and notify your primary care physician of any abnormal findings. She will also spend time educating both you and your family about safe exercise techniques. Additionally, there are monthly group nutrition classes. Individual nutrition therapy is also available. A progress report will be sent regularly to your referring physician.
Please call 919-799-4650 for more information.
