LVAD and Heart Transplant for the Rehabilitation Therapist

Course overview

Rehabilitation therapy for patients requiring LVAD and Heart Transplant is a rapidly growing area of practice for physical and occupational therapists across the continuum of care. As medical device technology and transplantation techniques improve, more patients are able to be treated with advanced heart failure therapies. This growing population has unique rehabilitation needs, especially as patients who are more critically ill are able to receive these life-saving therapies, but have the impact of multiple surgeries, long length of stay, and longevity of illness. Rehabilitation professionals who treat across the continuum of care should be aware of the considerations for patients who have heart failure and are either in preparation for or have received advanced heart failure treatment such as LVAD or Heart Transplant and the impact on body systems. The speaker will review relevant lab values, medications, and potential challenges that therapists may be faced with while working with this population and provide tools to advocate for improved rehabilitation practice. Case studies will be reviewed and patient outcomes discussed to provide examples of rehabilitation interventions with lessons and considerations for PTs and OTs in all areas of practice.