Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Mt Wilga's Cardiac Rehabilitation program is designed to help you if you are recovering from a heart attack, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, angina, angioplasty or disturbances in the heart rhythm.
The program provides you with education, exercise and guidance in modifying your lifestyle. Our aim is to help you minimise the risk of further cardiac episodes and give you the confidence to continue a full and satisfying life.
Your rehabilitation program is managed by a team of health professionals:
- Rehabilitation Physician
- Rehabilitation Nurses
- Occupational Therapist
- Physiotherapist
- Dietitian
- Case managers
- Exercise physiologist
On admission you will be assessed by all members of the rehabilitation team and a program will be formulated to suit your individual needs. You are part of the team and will be encouraged to participate in the development and review of your rehabilitation program. At the end of your program you should feel confident and competent in continuing an unsupervised rehabilitation program at home.
Physiotherapy
You will be treated by a physiotherapist and / or an exercise physiologist with specialist training and interest in cardiac conditions.
Your treatment may include:
- gentle exercise
- walking
- gym work
You will be encouraged to work within your limitations. An exercise program will be designed for you to continue on the ward and at home.
Occupational therapy
Your Occupational Therapy program will assist you to regain your former level of independence and quality of life. Your program may include assessment and training in:
- Energy conservation
- Stress management and lifestyle changes
- Home safety assessment
Dietitian
You will be assessed by the dietitian and advice will be given regarding cholesterol, fats and salt intake. If you are over weight the dietitian will advise a weight reduction diet for you and provide you with information on how to manage this at home.
Nursing staff
Your nurses will encourage and assist you to achieve your optimal level of independence. They provide 24 hour care and supervision and will help you with your daily ward activities. Daily wound assessment and monitoring of your cardiac status and general health is a necessary part of your care.
Your nurses continually liaise with your therapists to ensure continuity of your rehabilitation care and are always available to answer questions about your rehabilitation program, your medical care or other health concerns.
Medical services
Your rehabilitation program is directed by a Rehabilitation Physician. He/she has the responsibility of monitoring and evaluating your medical and rehabilitation care. The Rehabilitation Specialist will liaise with your referring doctor, General Practitioner and other specialists to ensure effective continuity of medical care.
Discharge
You will be discharged when you reach your potential or no longer require nursing care. If you require support at home, such as Meals on Wheels or Community Nursing this will be arranged prior to your discharge.
If you require further rehabilitation treatment you will be referred to a day rehabilitation program or outpatient services. This will be discussed with you and your family to allow you to plan accordingly.