Cardiovascular responses from immersion at recovery phase of the cardiac rehabilitation protocol - doi:10.5020/18061230.2011.p123

Abstract

Objective: To describe the cardiovascular responses from immersion at recovery phase of the cardiac rehabilitation protocol. Methods: This was an interventional, descriptive and prospective study with quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 20 patients with diagnoses of heart disease and hypertension with Functional Classification of Heart Failure from the New York Heart Association (NYHA), which have remained clinically stable and participating in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program of Fortaleza University. The variables heart rate, blood pressure, saturation and dyspnea were investigated, being verified at rest, post-exercise and post-immersion. Data collection occurred over three sessions, with one week interval. Results: There was a significant response in heart rate and dyspnea, after application of immersion in the recovery phase (p <0.05), unlike blood pressure and saturation (p> 0.05). Conclusion: There were no clinical consequences resulting from the method used, showing significant improvements in symptoms, with adherence to the cardiac rehabilitation program after inclusion of immersion as a therapeutic complement.