The effects of exercise based cardiac rehabilitation on quality of life in congestive heart failure

This study is a randomized control trial to test the efficacy of a supervised phase-1 cardiac rehabilitation program followed by a 6 week structured home program on quality of life in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). All patients admitted with class II-IV NYHA functional classification of CHF will be included. Random allocation through concealed allotment using block randomization will be carried out. Outcomes will be measured at admission, discharge and follow-up. The primary outcome will be the SF-36 while the secondary outcome measures will be the Minnesotta living with heart failure questionnaire and the six minute walk test. Follow up will be done in the experimental group weekly over the phone. At the end of 6 weeks, both groups will be reviewed and all the outcome measures measured.