Table 1. Preliminary Evaluation and Precautions during Early Mobilization in Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Recipients

Assessment
 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.