National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

A patient in an acute care hospital recovering from acute coronary syndrome is cleared to ambulate with assistance. At which level of cardiac rehabilitation is the patient classified?

1. Inpatient rehab, level 1

2. Inpatient rehab, level 2

3. Inpatient rehab, level 3

4. Inpatient rehab, level 4

The correct answer is: Inpatient rehab, level 2

The classification of the patient in this scenario as being in inpatient rehab, level 2, is appropriate due to several specific factors associated with this stage of cardiac rehabilitation. Inpatient rehab, level 2 typically involves patients who have experienced a recent cardiac event and are beginning to engage in more active rehabilitation. Conditions like acute coronary syndrome usually necessitate careful monitoring and a structured approach to increasing physical activity. At this level, patients are typically cleared to engage in ambulation with assistance, which aligns with the patient's current status. During level 2, the focus is on promoting mobility, assessing functional capacity, and gradually increasing activity levels while ensuring safety. Patients often receive education about their condition and the importance of physical activity in recovery. This is vital as they transition from a state of rest to more active engagement in their recovery process. Overall, level 2 rehabilitation is a critical phase in ensuring that patients regain their strength, cardiovascular function, and confidence in their abilities following the acute event while under clinical supervision.