Physiotherapy management of patients with coronary artery disease: a report on current practice in South Africa

Abstract

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a worldwide health problem with an increased prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. Physiotherapists inter-nationally are involved in the care of these patients from the acute stage following a cardiac event until phase III cardiac rehabilitation is completed. The purpose of this study was to determine the current physiotherapy management of patients with CAD in South Africa. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted over two months with a questionnaire that was sent to the government and private health care sectors. Results showed that more cardiopulmonary physiotherapists provided care (62%) than those who didn’t (38%). Care was mostly provided in a hospital setting (81%) and out- patient phase III cardiac rehabilitation was lacking (11%). In-hospital physiotherapy treatment was mostly provided once daily. Deep breathing exercises (99%), circulatory exercises (95%) and manual chest clearance techniques (88%) were mostly used during physiotherapy. Evidence based practice was consistent regarding early mobilization but was inconsistent with regards to the use of manual chest clearance techniques.

Keywords

• coronary artery disease
• physiotherapy
• current practice