Highlights of the benefits of regular exercise

Highlights of the benefits of regular exercise

1. cardiovascular system – decrease blood pressure, increase stroke volume

2. respiratory system – increase vital capacity

3. musculoskeletal system – increase mineral retention, improve gait, balance, strength

4. metabolic system – increase metabolic rate, decrease weight, blood glucose control,

   heads off type II diabetes

Benefits of regular exercise, cont'd

1. gastrointestinal system – regular digestion & bowel activity

2. urinary system – increased bladder tone

3. skin – pores open & glow, vitamin D production,

4. psychosocial – decreased stress & depression, increased body image

Complications of Immobility

1. cardiovascular – decreased heart reserve, venous stasis, orthostatic hypotension,

   thrombophlebitis, dependent edema (lower limbs will swell)

2. respiratory – difficulty breathing, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, decreased vital capacity, decreased chest expansion

3. musculoskeletal – atrophy, contracture, osteoporosis, decreased muscle tone, size, strength

4. metabolic – gain weight, negative N balance, protein synthesis (anabolism) exceeded by breakdown (catabolism), kidneys affected

5. gastrointestinal – slow down, decreased appetite & peristalsis

6. urinary – urine pool in kidneys get U.T. I.

7. skin – pressure ulcer risk

8. psychosocial – isolation, low self-esteem

Immediate vs Long Range Effects of Exercise

immediately during and after exercise: pulse & blood pressure rise, respiratory rate increases.

with regular exercise:

1. the heart is more efficient

2. improved pulmonary functioning

3. increased muscle efficiency

4. increased coordination

5. increased blood flow to all body parts

Assessing

nursing history – ask pt what their ADL's & IADL's are

physical examination

1. body alignment – increased lung expansion and better posture

2. gait – notice if pt limps

3. appearance & movement of joints (use pain scale 1to 10 if pain present)

4. capabilities &limitations for movement

5. muscle mass, strength & tone

6. activity tolerance

7. problems related to immobility

8. balance – have they fallen in last month