Development and Application of an Early Exercise Program for Open Heart Surgery Patients

개심술 환자를 위한 조기 운동프로그램의 개발 및 적용에 관한 연구

Purpose: This study was to develop and evaluate stability and effects of an early exercise program for patients with open heart surgery. Methods: The subjects of this study were 30 patients who had either a coronary bypass surgery or a valvular heart surgery at a tertiary hospital in Seoul. The data was collected by observation and measurement from October 1, 2004 to November 15, 2004. Results: The early exercise program developed for this study consisted of range of motion exercise and walking. Intensity of walking was 1~3 METs and increased progressively to daily target distance. During exercise, the subjects were monitored heart rate, blood pressure and RPE (Rating of Perceived Exertion). The mean FIM (Functional Independent Measurements) score of subjects was significantly improved after the early exercise program. However, several complaints such as dizziness or pain were also reported. Most complaints were associated with chest tube and RPE. Conclusion: The early exercise program can help to recover patients' physical activities after surgery, and can be applied to most patients. Patients' RPE, dizziness and pain was possible limitations, therefore, active pain control and prevention of accidents for patients would be needed.