Phase 1 of Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation, also called cardiac rehab, is an important part of the process for patients recovering from a heart problem.
Phase 1 of cardiac rehab begins while the patient is still in the hospital, once he or she is able to stand. At that point in recovery, a nurse or patient care technician accompanies the patient on short walks.
Because muscles can atrophy quickly if they’re not used, it’s important to get moving as soon as possible. Walking also helps prevent lung problems and pneumonia and builds strength.