The Heart Team

The Heart physical therapists work with both surgical and non-surgical patients in the intensive care units (thoracic/cardiovascular post-op and  coronary care units) and on the step-down units (4 east, 4 central and 4 west).

The physical therapy team provides pre- and post-operative care and treatment of patients undergoing lung surgery, cardiac surgery, vascular and cardiopulmonary transplantation.

On the cardiology unit the physical therapist is responsible for evaluating and treating patient's physical needs within the constraints of their cardiac disease and initiating recommendation for home programs.

The physical therapist plays an integral part in the multi-disciplinary team, attend rounds and work in close liaison with other health care professionals.

 

 Student Objectives
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the heart and lungs through patient demonstrations, evaluation and treatment.
  • Possess an elementary knowledge of EKGs and basic arrhythmias.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of various procedures used in cardiology and thoracic/cardiac/vascular surgery and be able to discuss their impact on physical therapy.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of intensive care interventions and monitoring and the role of physical therapist in the ICU setting.
  • Learn pre-and post-operative chest P.T. procedures and be able to instruct patients.
  • Be able to identify pertinent information in the patient's chart and to write appropriate evaluations, progress notes and discharge summaries.
  • Be able to design exercise programs appropriate for this patient population.
  • Be able to discuss diagnosis and treatment plans with the multi-disciplinary team, to include discharge planning.
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