Exercise Physiologist how-to

How to Monitor a Cardiac Rehab Session

Monitoring keeps patients safe.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Monitoring keeps patients safe. In short: check; attach; watch, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check vitals before exercise.

  2. Attach ECG telemetry.

  3. Watch rhythms and symptoms.

  4. Adjust intensity as needed.

  5. Check vitals after cooldown.

  6. Document.

Safety reminders for exercise physiologists

  • Screen for contraindications
  • Know emergency procedures and AED use
  • Monitor vitals and symptoms
  • Work within physician orders

VO2 max · Graded exercise test · ECG · Cardiac rehabilitation · Pulmonary rehabilitation · Exercise prescription: see the full exercise physiologist glossary.

More exercise physiologist how-to guides

Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz