Development of an Educational Curriculum for Cardiac Rehabilitation Patients and their Families

Objective: This study describes the development of an educational curriculum for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) patients and their families. Methods: A committee of 16 CR experts was organized in order to develop the educational curriculum. The aim of this curriculum was to enable patients to take charge of their medical condition and respond appropriately to changes in their health, developing strategies to improve their risk factors. The curriculum’s framework was adapted from the University Health Network’s Framework and the Eastern Region Community College ABC program. Results: The development of the curriculum consisted of the following phases: problem definition, theoretical foundation, needs analysis, program goals/educational objectives, sequencing instruction, instructional strategy/ design and methods/materials, and evaluation of instruction/materials and learning for health outcomes. Constructive theory and adult learning principles were used in curriculum development and delivery. The HAPA model was embedded to guide behaviour change. The curriculum has been successfully implemented. Conclusion: The educational curriculum is a sequential and theoretical strategy that can reach CR programs in order to support patients’ education and behaviour change.