Final answer:
The key to cardiac rehabilitation is lifestyle modification, encompassing dietary changes and physical activity, together with medications to manage cardiac risk factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The key to cardiac rehabilitation programs for the patient is b. Lifestyle modification. This includes long-term changes to behavior that emphasize a healthy diet and exercise, in addition to a medicine regime tailored to lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and lipids, and reduce clotting, which are all critical to improving cardiac health and preventing further complications. While medication management, surgical intervention, and genetic counseling can play roles in cardiac care, lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of effective rehabilitation.
Medications like statins, nitroglycerin, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers are often used to manage symptoms and reduce risks of future cardiac events. However, they are most effective when used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications. Behavioral weight loss interventions, which include self-monitoring, nutrition education, dietary changes, physical activity goals, and behavior modification, can significantly lower the risk for type 2 diabetes and improve cardiometabolic risk factors.