Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation
Refers to the stage when people who have had a cardiac event or cardiac surgery transfer from Phase III (Hospital based education & exercise) to Phase IV which is a long term maintenance programme of exercise and education.
All participants wishing to exercise or participate in physical activity must get a referral form or a letter of approval from a consultant, GP or the Phase III Cardiac Nurse Specialist or Sister.
To deliver Phase IV classes or personal training within this field the exercise professional must be on the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) at advanced level 3 minimum and hold current certificates in Phase IV instruction and 1st aid, and also be accredited by Shropshire & Telford Activity Referral Scheme (STARS) if working within the County of Shropshire. It is also necessary for the exercise professional to adhere to the standards and guidelines set out by the British Association for Cardiac Rehabilitation (BACR). A revalidation process for up dating training and knowledge is required every three years.
Phase IV cardiac rehabilitation programmes throughout the UK have increased dramatically since the mid 1990’s. As a result of this being a fairly new & specialist field many people with coronary heart/artery disease have not yet benefited from a structured cardiac rehabilitation exercise programme.
Increased physical activity and appropriate education can either reduce or help with the rehabilitation of the following:
- Heart attack (MI)
- Angina
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Mini strokes (TIA’s)
- Strokes (CVA)
- Thrombosis
It is important to know that when participating in physical activity the exercise professionals that advise you are as up to date with their knowledge and training as possible.