a. Recent and past medical history, and level of exercise capacity previous to disease state |
b. Mental status and cognitive ability. |
c. Vital signs and risk of cardiovascular instability |
d. Clinical assessment (persistence of VAD-related and heart failure symptoms) |
e. Medications, infusions (inotropic drugs), ventilator settings, oxygen requirements |
f. Range of motion, coordination, balance, strength, endurance, functional capacity |
g. Baseline haemochromocytometric, ionic and renal functional assessment |
Follow sternotomy (6weeks post-surgery screening of wound) and skin integrity |
Always wear a driveline stabilization belt during exercise |
The patient should have his/her travel bag nearby at all times. (a back-up controller, battery clips and spare batteries) |
Make early mobilization and exercise sessions comfortable |
The VAD equipment location should not impede emergency procedures. |