Benefits of cardiac rehabilitation

Abstract

According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of both men and women. Cardiac rehabilitation has been used for a number of years to improve the level of functioning of those with cardiac disease and to prevent the recurrence of problems. However, participation rates have been reported as low as 11% - 38%, with the most recent national rate of participation in cardiac rehabilitation reported at 15%. Conflicting reports have made it difficult for nurses to identify and share the benefits derived from a cardiac rehabilitation program. The purpose of this study was to identify the benefits of a cardiac rehabilitation program which have been demonstrated through research. The method used for this study is a review and synthesis of relevant literature, primarily from 1998-2000. Overall, findings indicate that cardiac rehabilitation programs are effective in reducing mortality, morbidity and major symptoms including angina and serum lipid levels; improving exercise tolerance, psychological symptoms and quality of life. Identified factors influencing results were physician's referral, attendance, adherence, types of approaches used, personality and gender. Implications for nursing research, education, and practice were discussed.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2001

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Smith, Frances B.

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

College

College of Health and Public Affairs

Degree Program

Nursing

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Health and Public Affairs;Health and Public Affairs -- Dissertations, Academic;Heart -- Diseases -- Patients -- Rehabilitation

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0021692

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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