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Cardiac Rehabilitation Week

Cardiac Rehabilitation Week

Join us at Athena Health Care Systems in recognizing National Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, which lasts from February 9th-15th. We use this week to celebrate the life saving impact that cardiac rehabilitation has in reducing the crushing effects of heart disease and heart-related illnesses. Cardiac Rehabilitation Week is initiated by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR), and coincidentally is in the same month as American Hearth Month and Valentine’s Day. What better way to bring greater awareness to your most vital organ by having a whole month dedicated towards it?

The theme for this years National Cardiac Rehabilitation week is “New Start Better Heart,” and this slogan represents the Patients, Healthcare Professionals and family members who are determined to give these patients in need of cardiac Rehabilitation a fresh start.

Cardiac Rehab is a medically supervised program which is administered by a team consisting of registered nurses, registered dietitians, exercise specialists and health educators. The program length is usually 36 sessions over a three-month period.

 

Here’s how to get the most out of cardiac rehab:

  1. Ask your doctor if you are eligible.
    1. If you are, register for a cardiac rehab program.
  2. In discussion with your medical team, set the goals you have for your heart health.
    1. Working together to create a cardiac rehab plan is the first major step.
  3. Take an active role in your personal care to achieve goals.
    1. Quit Smoking for GOOD!
    2. Keep Blood Pressure under 130/80 mm Hg
    3. Get your cholesterol checked and discuss with your doctor how your current numbers effect your overall health.
    4. At least 150 hours of moderate physical activity per week.
    5. The ideal Body Mass Index (BMI) is 18.5-24.9 kg/m2
    6. Normal fasting blood glucose of less than 100 mg/dl
      1. UNLESS you’re a diabetic, then an hbA1c (glycosylated Hemoglobin) below 7% is recommended.
    7. Take your medication accordingly.
    8. Call 911 immediately if you experience any new or worsening symptoms.

 

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February 13, 2020 A Healthier Approach To Caring