The American Heart Association says physicians should aggressively encourage patients to exercise and follow cardiac rehabilitation protocols to prevent recurrent heart attacks; however, these programs are underused in the United States with only 10 to 20 percent of eligible patients participating. In the revision of the association's 1994 scientific statement, research findings show that average cardiac death was 26 percent lower in rehab patients who received exercise training. There were also 21 percent fewer non-fatal heart attacks, 13 percent fewer bypass surgeries and 19 percent fewer angioplasties in the exercise-trained people. While exercise plays a major role in cardiac rehab, Martha Bryant, oordinator for cardiac rehab and pulmonary management for Baptist Medical Center Montclair, said education is equally as important as physical activity. "We educate our patients about why physical activity is safe and beneficial and why it will continue to help them as they recover," Bryant said. She and the other registered nurses also provide guidance about diet and nutrition. Montclair's rehab facility recently relocated to Professional Office Building 860. Patients are enjoying the renovated area and new exercise equipment in a glass-enclosed room which provides lots of light and allows patients to enjoy the outside scenery. A new Quinton Cardiac Monitoring System helps Bryant and her staff monitor each patient's progress and keep the physician updated. "As a patient progresses in the program, we inform the physician of what we do here and how the patient responds," Bryant said. In addition to the state-of-the-art equipment, Montclair's upgrade also included the provision of additional time for education. "Our improved scheduling allows us to spend as much time with patients as they need," said Bryant. "We want to schedule times that are convenient for them, not for us." Because the goal is for these exercise and lifestyle practices to become lifelong habits, Montclair's program goes a step farther for patients who have completed the program but still want to exercise with a nurse. "The 'Healthy You' wellness program gives these people a sense of security," Bryant said. "The patients feel safe exercising here, but the greatest thing is when they realize the benefits of participating in the program."