An occupational therapist develops an intervention plan for a patient in Phase 2 of cardiac recovery. Which activities should be included?

In Phase 2 of cardiac recovery, patients are typically in a supervised rehabilitation program where the focus is on gradually increasing physical activity to improve cardiovascular endurance and overall functional capacity. Activities appropriate for this phase aim to promote steady, manageable heart activity without excessive strain.

Choosing weeding a garden and doing low-impact aerobics aligns well with the goals of this phase. Gardening activities, such as weeding, can provide moderate physical exertion while permitting patients to engage in a familiar and enjoyable context. Low-impact aerobics is a structured activity that enhances cardiovascular fitness while minimizing the risk of overexertion or injury. Both activities emphasize controlled movements and allow for monitoring of the patient's tolerance and response, which is vital in cardiac rehabilitation settings.

In contrast, other options contain activities that may be too strenuous or difficult for patients in Phase 2. High-intensity interval training and jogging could exceed the cardiac capacity appropriate for this stage and introduce risks. Therefore, the combination of weeding a garden with low-impact aerobics offers an optimal blend of engagement and safety, making it the most suitable choice.