A Ventricular Assistive Device, or VAD, is used to aid individuals suffering from Heart Failure. The mechanical device, which can be implanted or worn outside the body, consists of a pump, an electrical controller, a driveline, and batteries that work together to supersede the pumping action of the heart. The continuous flow pump typically results in little to no palpable pulse for patients with these devices.

Our world is facing unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Several industries, including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, have been deeply impacted. Many programs have decided to close operations to protect the health and safety of staff and patients. The good news is there is light at the end of the tunnel. Some states are starting to lift their stay at home orders and non-essential businesses are being allowed to re-open under updated guidelines. While cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs begin to re-open, there are several items that should be considered to ensure an easy transition, while rehab staff members maximize their time and efforts.

Although exercising with a face mask may not be ideal, it is necessary to ensure the health and safety of patients and staff. By understanding the physiological effects of wearing a face covering and adjusting exercise prescriptions accordingly, cardiopulmonary rehab programs can continue to provide safe and compassionate care to patients.

The Functional Exercise Test (FXT) is a therapeutic measure designed to evaluate functional capacity, write an individualized ExRx and measure progress in a rehabilitation setting. It is usually self-paced in terms of intensity and volitional in terms of duration. In other words, the patient is in control.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States with more than 600,000 deaths annually. Patients must be aware of the non-modifiable risk factors and commit time and energy to making improvements with the modifiable risk factors.

The first physical activity guidelines were released over 25 years ago. Additional research has shown physical activity to have even more health benefits than previously thought. Among the many health benefits, evidence shows that some physical activity each day can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality rate.

While the risk of having a cardiovascular event during exercise is extremely low, it is imperative that patients in a cardiac rehabilitation program follow an exercise program that is based on their individual needs. The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehab has developed criteria to risk stratify patients prior to beginning a supervised exercise program.

For the first time since 2003, new blood pressure guidelines for hypertension have been released. These new guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association are based largely on data from the 2015 SPRINT study

Following a Mediterranean Diet has many health benefits for cardiopulmonary rehab patients. This two-page handout provides the Healthy Eating Pyramid for the Mediterranean Diet and a questionnaire to help your patients determine how closely they’re adhering to the diet.