Orientation
Prior to entering he Cardiac Rehabilitation program, each patient receives a thorough orientation. This includes a description of the exercise regime, an outline of the education components, the schedule and procedures.

A Multidisciplinary Team
The Cardiac Rehabilitation team is made up of a qualified group of professionals representing the spectrum of health services, each with specialized cardiovascular experience. A clinical dietitian and stress counselor complete this multidisciplinary team.

Individual Exercise Programs
Tailored to each patient, each session includes a stretching period and aerobic activities including treadmills, bikes and steppers. Light weights are gradually added.

Patients are supervised while they exercise, and their heart rates and blood pressures are monitored. Weekly increases in the exercise program enhance cardiovascular conditioning and improve work capacity.

Education
Cardiovascular health and education are an important component to the Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Program. Education and classes about heart health, coronary artery disease, reducing risk factors, prevention, exercise and medication are all topics that are explored.

Dietary Consultant & Education
Each patient and spouse receives a dietary assessment by a trained dietician. The dietician will review the patient's food intake and cholesterol levels. Low-sodium, low-cholesterol, low-fat, low-caffeine and high-fiber diets will be discussed as appropriate. The dietician will answer questions as well as give ideas for preparing food, reading food labels, purchasing food and eating out.

Additional classes are available for further education on fats, cholesterol, portion sizes and recipe adjustments, as well as an opportunity to sample low fat foods.

Stress Management
Patients and their family can meet with a stress counselor for a routine interview to help identify and then modify areas of stress in their lives, which may have contributed to their heart condition. The counselor is available to patients and/or spouses throughout the program for stress counseling, biofeedback and relaxation techniques.

Maintenance
The maintenance program is designed to help patients maintain and improve their levels of physical fitness.

Congestive Heart Program

The Congestive Heart Program includes specific education regarding daily fluid intake and weight management, medication and activity.

Learn about Queen of the Valley's outstanding Regional Heart Center

For more information about any of our Wellness Center programs, e-mail us at wellnesscenter@stjoe.org