Pulmonary Rehabilitaiton
Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a comprehensive outpatient exercise and education program for individuals with symptomatic lung disease. The purpose of the program is to reduce and control the symptoms and complications related to lung disease as well as improve the individual's functional status and enhance his or her quality of life.
About the Program
A team of physicians, registered nurses, exercise physiologists, registered dietitians and registered respiratory care practitioners develop an individualized program based upon results of pulmonary function and stress tests, medical history, personal needs and goals. A customized exercise program is developed based on the participant's abilities and limitations.
This generally includes training of arm and leg muscles to enhance your performance of routine daily activities as well as breathing that includes retraining and strengthen your breathing muscles. During each exercise session, all activities are carefully structured and monitored.
Monitoring includes:
- Continuous EKG monitoring via telemetry
- Pulse Oximetry (oxygen monitor)
- Blood Pressure Checks
Education
Education plays an essential role in this program and is provided through group and individual interaction. Family members are encouraged to participate.
Some of the topics include:
- Nutrition and Lung Disease
- Breathing Retraining
- Infection Control/Bronchial Hygiene
- Oxygen Use
- Respiratory Medications
- Stress Management
- Energy Conservation
- Better Breathers Club (which meets quarterly or four times per year)
Every participant meets with the registered dietitian to address any individual needs.
Participants attend sessions two to three times each week. The length of the program varies and depends on individualized needs and program goals.
How to get Started
Talk to your physician. Pulmonary function tests are required and a stress test may be ordered prior to participation. A written referral from a physician is required. The next step is to schedule an interview with our staff at the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center. During the interview, a medical health history is obtained and individualized goals are established.
Insurance
Most insurance carriers cover the cost of this program. Please check with your insurance carrier regarding coverage for pulmonary rehabilitation.
Facility
Capital Health's Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Wellness Center has a full complement of aerobic exercise equipment and free weights. Shower facilities and free valet parking are available.
Cardiopulmonary Fitness Center
Once you have completed the rehabilitation program, Capital Health offers a wellness program. This enables participants to continue their program in a structured medical environment. Click here for more information on the Cardiopulmonary Fitness Center.
Contact Us
The Pulmonary Rehabilitation program at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell is under construction and planned to open in 2012. For more information about the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program, please call us at Capital Health Medical Center - Hopewell at 609-537-6273.