Heart Failure Classifications and PT implications and Medications

AHA classification Class A

apparently health individuals but high risk

AHA Classification Class B

structural changes no s/s, stable CHD

AHA classification Class C

structural changes with current symptoms of HF

AHA Classification Class D

high risk HF very bad

AHA classification class E

unstable no activity restriction

NYHA Class I

No limitation of physical activity and no s/s

NYHA Class II

Slight limitation of physical activity. Comfortable at rest, but ordinary physical activity results in symptoms of HF

NYHA Class III

Marked limitation of physical activity. Comfortable at rest. Less than ordinary activity causes fatigue, palpitation, shortness of breath or chest pain.

NYHA Class IV

Symptoms of heart failure at rest. Any physical activity causes further discomfort.

AHA Class B and Class C often relate to what NYHA classification

NYHA I and II

NYHA classification III and greater relate to what AHA classification

AHA Class D and E

the exercise capacity for someone with AHA class B/C or NYHA I or II is withing how many mets

NYHA I: max 6 METS

NYHA II: max 4.5 METS

5-6 METs

Brisk walking, biking,

(moderate intensity)

AHA class D/E and NYHA classes III and IV what is the aerobic capacity

NYHA III: max 3.0 METS

NYHA IV: max 1.5 METS

less than 6 mets can be

slow walking, ADLs

(light intensity)

AHA class A PT treatment includes

education, stop smoking, decrease HTN, regular exercise

AHA class B-D PT treatment includes

education, stop smoking, decrease HTN, regular exercise

Medication for AHA class A

ACEI or ARB

medication for AHA class B

ACEI, ARB, Beta blocker

Medication for AHA class C

diuretic, ACEI, beta blocker, defibrillator or pacemaker

medication for AHA class D

end of life care, transplant, surgical trials