(File Date: 2026-02-20 10:24:03) الدليل السعودي لبرامج إعادة التأهيل القلبي والو
Para. 2.1.1Status unknownSaudi ArabiaRegulation
Issued by Ministry of Health (moh.gov.sa)
Setting and practical duration
Cardiac rehabilitation typically begins during hospitalization, starting around 48 hours after an
acute cardiac event, and continues until the patient is discharged. Phase I of cardiac rehab
should commence once the physician confirms the patient's medical stability. In the current
healthcare setting, particularly under managed care systems, patients are often discharged
within 7 to 10 days following their hospital admission
2.1.1.1 Objectives
Prevent loss of physical capacity.
Avoid effects of prolonged bed rest.
Avoid depression.
Avoid respiratory and thromboembolic complications.
Facilitate early discharge.
Provide suitable information to the patient and family.
2.1.1.2 Inclusion Criteria
Medically stable post-myocardial infarction (MI)
Post-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and others cardiac surgeries
Post-angioplasty
Post-cardiac transplant surgery
Medically stable with other cardiac conditions
Patients undergoing cardiac surgery
2.1.1.3 Exclusion criteria
Unstable angina
Acute Congestive Heart Failure
Dysrhythmias
Resting BP's >200/100 mm Hg
Moderate to Severe Aortic Stenosis
Third Degree AV Block
Acute Pericarditis
Recent Embolic Events
Resting ST Segment Depression greater Than 3-4 mm
Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus
Moderate to Severe Cardiomyopathies
Orthopedic Problems
Left ventricular failure, cardiogenic shock, persistent hypotension (SBP< 90mmHg)
Persistent supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).
2.1.1.4 Medical Chart Review
A thorough review of the patient's medical records is essential for planning appropriate
cardiac rehabilitation interventions. The following key questions should guide the chart
review process:
Primary Diagnosis
Identify the patient’s main cardiac condition (e.g., myocardial infarction, aortic
stenosis, coronary artery bypass grafting [CABG], etc.).
Defibrillation History
Determine whether the patient has undergone defibrillation.
Surgical History
Confirm if the patient has had a CABG procedure.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) Findings
Analyse the latest ECG report for any abnormalities.
Thrombolytic Therapy
Check if the patient received thrombolytic agents such as Tissue Plasminogen
Activator (tPA) or Streptokinase during the acute phase of myocardial infarction.
Lipid Profile
Review laboratory results to assess cholesterol and lipid levels.
Echocardiogram Results
Evaluate for structural or functional abnormalities, including hypokinesis of the
septum or ventricular wall, wall thickness, and left ventricular ejection fraction
(LVEF). An LVEF >60% is normal; values <35% may limit participation in intensive
physical activity.
Coronary Angiography
If performed, review the catheterization report to identify which coronary vessels are
affected and the degree of stenosis.
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
Determine whether a PFT was conducted and whether it indicates obstructive or
restrictive lung disease.
Medication Review
Document all current medications the patient is taking, including dosages and
indications.
Nursing Notes
Examine nursing documentation for additional observations regarding the patient's
physical and emotional status, mobility, and response to care.
2.1.1.5 Patient and Family Interview
Direct communication with the patient and their family is essential to develop an individualized and
effective rehabilitation plan. The interview should address the following components:
Mental Status: Ask the patient to describe why they believe they were admitted. This
helps assess their orientation, cognitive function, and understanding of their health
condition.
Symptom History: Explore the symptoms experienced prior to hospitalization. Focus
on typical cardiac symptoms such as: Chest pain or pressure, pain radiating to the left
The Arabic text is the legally binding version. The English translation is provided for guidance only.
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