Cardiac rehab now at PCHS

Cardiac rehabilitation, or cardiac rehab, is the newest program being offered at Perkins County Health Services. 

Kym Weiss, registered nurse and cardiac rehab manager, said cardiac rehab is an individualized program of exercise and education for people who have suffered various forms of heart disease and its complications, such as a heart attack or valve replacement surgery. 

 Much like the body requires physical therapy following an illness or injury, the heart needs cardiac rehab to build its strength.

Weiss said once patients are referred to cardiac rehab, overall health status is assessed. From there, an individualized treatment plan is created and Weiss reviews the plan with the patient’s primary caregiver. 

Through the course of cardiac rehab, progressive exercise is performed and education for lifestyle modification is provided. Patients’ vitals are continually monitored during their sessions.

Dietician Shana Kraus works with patients to provide nutrition education. 

The ultimate goal is to regain strength, prevent heart conditions from worsening, reduce the risk of further heart problems and improve overall health and quality of life.

Many benefits arise from participating in a cardiac rehab program. One of the most important benefits is often the overall improvement of quality of life. This comes from having increased strength, regular exercise, healthier eating habits, cutting out bad habits and finding ways to manage stress.

With the addition of the cardiac rehab program at PCHS, the community will now have the opportunity to participate in a program without having to travel to another facility several times a week. This often creates better adherence to the program, providing patients with maximal benefits.

Weiss is currently working with two patients and looking forward to seeing more patients to help them work toward a healthier life.

Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 308-352-7265 for more information.