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Therapy
Programs: Pulmonary Rehab
Overview
The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Harvard Rehab
is designed for patients with Chronic Respiratory Disease
(COPD, Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis, Pulmonary Fibrosis
and other Pulmonary conditions). The program combines
education with therapeutic exercise and functional activities
into a comprehensive 6-10 week program. The goal is
to help the patient understand and cope with the disease
and function more comfortably and independently at home.
Preadmission Evaluation
Upon a physician referral, the Program Director Gamal
Lucius, R.P.T, will evaluate the patient. If found to
be appropriate for admission to the program, a team
of healthcare professionals, including a respiratory
therapist, occupational therapist, licensed clinical
social worker, and a registered nurse are available
to evaluate and treat the patient's current level of
functioning and work with them to design an individualized
program to meet thier needs. Each discipline is engaged
as needed on a case-by-case basis. A detailed plan of
care will then be submitted to the referring physician
for approval to treat, or to gage whether any changes
should be made to the established plan.
Program
Summary
During the first session the patient will begin with
an orientation to this 6-10 week program. Thereafter
they will participate in educational activities, a progressive
exercise program and a support group. Some activities
will take place individually, while others with a group
of patients dealing with similar pulmonary problems.
The patient will attend to the program two to three
days each week, with each visit lasting approximately
two hours. Each patient will also be given an exercise
plan to continue at home at least 1-2 additional times
per week. The exercise program will begin at a level
based on the patient's ability. It will start slowly
and progress toward attainable goals set and adjusted
through the course of the program. It will consist of
aerobic conditioning activities such as paced walking,
bicycling and other exercises to improve strength and
endurance. Attention will be given to both upper and
lower body muscle groups.
Educational lectures and activities will cover a wide
range of topics designed to help the patient understand
the disease process and furnish needed information to
improve function and feel better.
During
the regular support groups, patients will have the opportunity
to share their questions and concerns with others dealing
with similar challenges. Progress will be continually
monitored and adjustments will be made to the program
based on individual performance and goals.
Our
goal is to empower patients with the health, skills
and
knowledge they need to live better lives.
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