Cardiac rehabilitation in the acute care setting: Integrative review

Abstract Background Phase one cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an essential component of care for patients with coronary heart disease. With optimal program delivery, health outcomes can be improved. Objectives To conduct an integrative review that explores Phase one CR for patients hospitalised with coronary heart disease. Design Integrative literature review (2003–2014) Data sources: The literature search included Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Experta Medica Database (EMBASE), Psycinfo, Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal, Cochrane Library, Clinical Evidence (BMJ) and Google Scholar. Review methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools relevant to study methodology were utilised. Studies included for review were peer reviewed, published in English. Studies included Phase one CR intervention/s or the provision of education to patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease in the acute care setting prior to hospital discharge. Results In the past decade cardiac researchers have predominantly focused on patients and health professionals perceptions, CR interventions, and patient education. Factors that impede delivery of Phase one CR, such as time, workload etc. were also reported. Conclusions The implementation of Phase one CR delivery requires optimisation to enable patients with coronary heart disease to achieve positive health outcomes post hospitalisation. Future interventions should address the factors that impede delivery of Phase one CR.