|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
| Home > News > 2005 News |
|
|
|
Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation accessible to patients at St. John’s St. Francis
Hospital
Feb. 21, 2005
St. John’s St. Francis Hospital has been offering cardio-pulmonary
rehabilitation to patients in the area since 1990.
Offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday, patients receive the benefit of a
prescribed workout on the treadmill, stationary bike and other equipment under
the watchful eye of a nurse trained in cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation.
Telemetry monitoring during exercise adds an extra piece of mind.
Janet Foy, RN, cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation manager, explains the program
further. “Cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation is for patients with heart disease or
problems as well as patients with pulmonary issues. Many of our patients have
had heart problems or heart surgery and are working toward a way of life they
were used to before the surgery.
“Patients with respiratory conditions and breathing problems also utilize our
services,” she added. “Many times a physician will prescribe pulmonary
rehabilitation for someone to increase their ability to breath normally after
hospitalization due to respiratory problems.”
Foy and cardio-pulmonary nurse, Marla Russell, LPN, work with patients to reach
a level of activity that is safe for them. “Each patient has their blood
pressure checked and is connected to a telemetry monitor when they arrive. This
monitor allows us to record their heart activity while they are exercising.
This is a report that we can then send to their physician to show progress or
complications in treatment.”
At St. John’s St. Francis Hospital the rehabilitation program is accessible to
patients with a physician’s order and initial participation is generally covered
by insurance and/or Medicare. Cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation is open Monday,
Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
“Once patients have completed the initial three month program, they have the
option to participate in a voluntary low-cost maintenance program,” Foy
explained. “Patients can come in to the rehabilitation work area and exercise on
the equipment with a nurse present. They are not monitored but have the piece of
mind that a nurse is present for their workout.
“People with health problems, shouldn’t have to travel far from home frequently
for treatment or rehabilitation,” said Foy. “Our program gives people an option
close to home. When a rehabilitation program is more accessible to patients,
they will more likely utilize the service and improve their overall health.
That’s what we offer – accessible, quality care, close to home.”
For more information about the Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at St.
John’s St. Francis Hospital, call 417-934-7000.
|
|
|
|