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What to expect at cardiac rehabilitation

Why may you be referred for a cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is for those who have had:

  • A heart attack 
  • A coronary angioplasty (balloon) and/or stent
  • Heart surgery including coronary artery bypass surgery, valve repair/ replacement 
  • Some people who have angina or heart failure

Patients are unable to attend the cardiac rehabilitation programme without referral. Please ask your GP or nurse for further information if you feel you would benefit from this service. 

Information about the process

Our team will contact you by telephone within a couple of days of arriving home. 

We will ask you some questions about your heart event/ surgery including past and present symptoms. This conversation will take place over a telephone call but in some instances, we may need to see you in person. 

We will help you to understand your condition and provide information on medications. We will also discuss your medical history and lifestyle factors including physical activity and exercise, dealing with stress, improved eating habits, and returning to work. This helps us to identify any further support you may need from specialist services such as weight management, dietetics, or smoking cessation.  

We will provide you with a welcome pack which will include additional information about what to expect at our cardiac rehabilitation service. 

Exercise sessions at cardiac rehabilitation

We offer an exercise programme with our exercise physiologists who provide you with tailored exercise advice depending on your current fitness level, goals and needs. You can choose whether you attend supervised group exercise sessions or a home exercise programme. 

Exercise and physical activity will play an important role in heart recovery.

Information sessions at cardiac rehabilitation

Alongside the exercise sessions, you will be invited to attend patient information sessions. These sessions provide information on: 

  • Physical activity and exercise - The benefits of activity and exercise including advice on how often, intensity and types of exercise. 
  • Stress management - We will help you explore issues and find ways to help.
  • Living with coronary heart disease - Explore the factors that contribute to heart issues and finding ways to take charge of your heart health.  
  • Knowing your heart medications - Information about your heart medications and discuss the benefits and possible side-effects. Find out more information about heart medication. 
  • Eating for a healthy heart - Find out how to be kind to your heart by eating healthily. We will help you and your family consider options for a ‘hearty’ meal.
  • Basic life support - Improve your awareness of what to do in an emergency situation. Understand the importance of CPR and how to perform chest compressions.
  • Home exercise programme support - Discuss how to perform exercises safely at home.

You will be given further information on the dates and times on your initial phone call with the cardiac rehabilitation team.