PCH celebrates American Heart Month

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

February is designated as American Heart Month to bring about awareness and provide strategies for individuals to make the best health choices in an effort to prevent or delay developing cardiovascular disease.

For those who have experienced a cardiac event, the question is often asked, "What do I do now?"

Putnam County Hospital recognizes the importance to support individuals and their loved ones toward a positive recovery. The Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness department is just what the doctor ordered.

Through a medically supervised education and exercise program, patients can minimize the effects of heart disease on their daily lives and reduce the risk for future heart problems. The program is staffed by Kim Carter, R.N., and Jenny Dobson, BS, and is coordinated by Annette Handy, R.N. The team sees conditioning clients on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The week of Feb. 8 through 15 was Cardiac Rehabilitation week and the American Association of Cardiovascular Pulmonary Rehab declared the 2009 theme to be "The Pulse of Life."

The week celebrated accomplishments of all people in their quests to become their personal best. The Cardiac Rehab and Wellness staff scheduled daily events for those served, including providing pedometers for home use, stress management techniques and healthy dining tips, among others. Laughter abounds from this department as clients share a camaraderie that bolsters recovery.

The Cardiac Rehab and Wellness program provides a welcoming environment that allows individuals a place to improve their overall health under the care of qualified team members. The team also assists physicians in completing a variety of non-invasive cardiac testing to help determine if additional evaluation is needed.

For questions regarding how to decrease personal risks for heart disease or to inquire about services available, contact the department by calling 765-655-2580 "because your health is where our heart is."

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