Video series details six steps to cardiac recovery

People who have had a heart attack now have access to a series of videos that aim to help survivors return to an active, satisfying life.

The videos, developed by Heart Foundation Victoria in collaboration with nurses from its nurse ambassador program, also aim to prevent further heart problems among patients and highlight the key things they need to know before leaving hospital.

RN Amanda Jennings, Heart Foundation Victoria nurse ambassador program manager, said the organisaton worked with nurses to identify gaps in educational materials. She said nurses often didn't have much time to detail all steps of cardiac recovery with patients.

"Nurses can help patients by getting them to watch the DVD or video and then going back and explaining, answering any questions they may have," Jennings said. "The patients can watch it in their own time, with their relatives when they're visiting. It just complements the education nurses are giving to patients on a daily basis."

Heart Foundation Victoria chief executive Diana Heggie said the videos are available to all health professionals and the general public.

“The videos explain the six steps to recovery, which include understanding your diagnosis, managing your risk factors, completing cardiac rehabilitation, taking your medication, knowing the warning signs of a heart attack and visiting your doctor regularly,” Heggie said. “We encourage all health professionals caring for heart attack survivors to use these videos to promote the six steps to cardiac recovery, especially the importance of attending cardiac rehabilitation.”

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