Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Certification Program (CPRCP)

CARDIOPULMONARY REHABILITATION CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (CPRCP)

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IPTA-CPR-CERT-v1.0-2025 · Version 1.0 (2025) · Hybrid (Online Pre-Program + Face to Face) · 5 Days · 48 CPD Hours

 

The Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Certification Program (CPRCP) is a comprehensive, advanced-level certification developed by the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) for physiotherapists seeking specialized competency in the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Delivered in a hybrid format — with structured online pre-program learning followed by five intensive face-to-face days — the program covers the full scope of cardiopulmonary physiotherapy practice: cardiac rehabilitation (phases I–IV), pulmonary rehabilitation, chest physiotherapy and airway clearance, respiratory muscle training, exercise prescription and testing for cardiopulmonary patients, mechanical ventilation management, and ICU rehabilitation. Participants develop advanced clinical reasoning skills, hands-on proficiency in cardiopulmonary assessment and intervention, and the ability to design individualized, evidence-based rehabilitation programs across acute, subacute, and community settings. The program is accredited by IPTA and the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN), and carries 48 IPTA-accredited CPD hours. Graduates earn the CPRCP credential and are equipped to lead cardiopulmonary rehabilitation services across hospital, outpatient, and community environments.

 

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01. PROGRAM INFORMATION

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Program Title: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Certification Program

Credential Awarded: Certified Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRCP)

Program Code: IPTA-CPR-CERT-v1.0-2025

Version: 1.0 (2025)

Program Type: Certification Program

Program Mode: Hybrid — Online Pre-Program Learning + Face to Face (Theory, Practical & Skills Lab)

Program Level: Advanced (Post-Graduate)

Duration: 5 Face-to-Face Days + Online Pre-Program (self-study and assessment)

Total CPD Hours: 48 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited

Theory / Practical Ratio: Approximately 40% Theory · 60% Practical, Skills Lab & Case-Based Learning

Developed By: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA)

Reviewed By: IPTA Review Committee & Scientific Council

Review Cycle: Every 3 Years

Target Discipline: Physiotherapy — Graduates Only

Accreditation: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) · International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN)

Guidelines: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA)

Effective Date: 2025

 

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02. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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The CPRCP is a five-day advanced certification program that equips physiotherapy graduates with the specialized knowledge, clinical reasoning skills, and hands-on competencies required for evidence-based cardiopulmonary rehabilitation practice. The program is built around two clinical pillars: cardiac rehabilitation — covering risk stratification, exercise testing, phases I through IV, electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation, and secondary prevention — and pulmonary rehabilitation — covering chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, interstitial lung disease, airway clearance, respiratory muscle training, and ventilatory support. A dedicated ICU and acute care day addresses mechanical ventilation, weaning protocols, early mobilization in critical care, and positioning. The program integrates exercise prescription, outcome measurement, patient education, and multidisciplinary collaboration throughout. Assessment combines a pre-program online examination, in-session competency checks, clinical case presentations, article criticism, and a final theory and practical examination on Day 5. Graduates emerge as confident, evidence-based cardiopulmonary rehabilitation practitioners capable of leading comprehensive programs in hospital, outpatient, and community settings.

 

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03. PROGRAM INTRODUCTION & RATIONALE

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Clinical / Professional Need

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Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases represent the leading causes of morbidity, mortality, and disability worldwide. Physiotherapists play a central and indispensable role in the rehabilitation of patients with cardiac and pulmonary conditions — from the acute ICU setting to long-term community-based exercise programs. Despite this, many physiotherapists in practice lack access to a structured, internationally accredited program that comprehensively covers both cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation at an advanced, post-graduate level within a single integrated certification. The CPRCP program addresses this critical gap by providing physiotherapists with the full spectrum of competencies required for evidence-based cardiopulmonary rehabilitation across all clinical settings.

 

Evidence Base & Alignment

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The program is grounded in current international evidence and clinical guidelines from leading bodies in cardiology and respiratory medicine, including the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the British Thoracic Society (BTS), the American Thoracic Society (ATS), and the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). Content covers evidence-based cardiac rehabilitation phases I–IV, pulmonary rehabilitation for obstructive and restrictive lung diseases, exercise testing and prescription, ventilatory support, and ICU early rehabilitation. All content is reviewed by the IPTA Scientific Council and aligned with IPTA guidelines and IPTN standards.

 

Alignment with IPTA Mission

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This program advances IPTA's mission to empower physiotherapy professionals worldwide through high-standard, evidence-based continuing education. It supports IPTA's strategic goal of promoting international standards in physiotherapy education and research, and reflects IPTA's recognition as an Affiliating Body by the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN).

 

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04. TARGET AUDIENCE

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Primary Audience: Licensed physiotherapy graduates working in or aspiring to work in cardiology, respiratory medicine, ICU, cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, or general hospital physiotherapy

Secondary Audience: Physiotherapists in outpatient, community, or home-based rehabilitation settings who manage patients with chronic cardiac or respiratory conditions

Career Stage: All career stages — content is at advanced post-graduate level; foundational cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology knowledge is assumed

Program Level: Advanced (Post-Graduate)

Geographic Scope: International — open to practitioners worldwide

Group Size (Typical): Small group format as per IPTA delivery guidelines to ensure skills lab quality and individualized tutor feedback

 

Who Should Attend — Ideal Candidate Profile

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·       Physiotherapy graduates working in cardiology, respiratory medicine, ICU, or cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation wards or departments.

·       Physiotherapists in outpatient or community settings managing patients with chronic heart failure, COPD, post-cardiac surgery, or other cardiopulmonary conditions.

·       Practitioners seeking to develop or lead structured cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation programs in their clinical setting.

·       Physiotherapists requiring an internationally accredited post-graduate credential (CPRCP) to evidence specialized cardiopulmonary rehabilitation competency.

·       Clinicians working in multidisciplinary cardiac or respiratory care teams who wish to strengthen their physiotherapy-specific contribution to patient management.

 

Who Should NOT Attend

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·       Non-physiotherapy healthcare professionals — this program is designed specifically for physiotherapy graduates.

·       Current physiotherapy students who have not yet completed their degree qualification.

·       Practitioners with no prior foundational exposure to cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology — a foundational understanding is assumed and covered in the pre-program online modules.

 

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05. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES & LEARNING OUTCOMES

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Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to:

 

General Objectives

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1. Apply advanced, evidence-based cardiac rehabilitation practices across phases I–IV for patients with ischemic heart disease, heart failure, post-cardiac surgery, and other cardiac conditions.

 

2. Deliver comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs for patients with COPD, asthma, interstitial lung disease, and other chronic respiratory conditions using evidence-based airway clearance, respiratory muscle training, and exercise-based approaches.

 

3. Perform advanced cardiopulmonary assessment including exercise testing, ECG interpretation for physiotherapists, respiratory function assessment, and outcome measurement.

 

4. Manage physiotherapy in the ICU and acute care setting, including early mobilization, positioning, mechanical ventilation management, and weaning protocols.

 

5. Design individualized, evidence-based cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs with appropriate exercise prescription, patient education, and risk stratification.

 

6. Evaluate and critically appraise current evidence in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation to inform and continuously improve clinical practice.

 

Knowledge (Cognitive Domain)

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·       Explain the pathophysiology of common cardiac conditions — including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, hypertension, and post-cardiac surgery — and their implications for physiotherapy rehabilitation.

·       Describe the pathophysiology of obstructive and restrictive lung diseases — including COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, and interstitial lung disease — and evidence-based physiotherapy management approaches.

·       Interpret cardiopulmonary exercise test results, ECG findings relevant to physiotherapy practice, and pulmonary function tests to guide rehabilitation programming.

·       Explain the principles of cardiac rehabilitation phases I–IV, risk stratification, secondary prevention, and exercise prescription for cardiac populations.

·       Describe the principles of pulmonary rehabilitation, airway clearance techniques, respiratory muscle training, breathing re-education, and ventilatory support management.

·       Identify indications, contraindications, and precautions for exercise and physiotherapy interventions in cardiopulmonary patients across acute, subacute, and community settings.

·       Critically appraise current evidence in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation from international guidelines and peer-reviewed literature.

 

Skills (Psychomotor Domain)

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·       Perform comprehensive cardiopulmonary physiotherapy assessment including auscultation, respiratory assessment, functional exercise testing (6MWT, Borg scale, CPET interpretation), and outcome measurement.

·       Apply chest physiotherapy and airway clearance techniques — including active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT), postural drainage, percussion and vibration, positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy, and high-frequency chest wall oscillation.

·       Design and deliver evidence-based exercise prescription programs for cardiac rehabilitation phases I–IV and pulmonary rehabilitation, including aerobic training, resistance training, and breathing exercises.

·       Perform respiratory muscle training using inspiratory and expiratory muscle training devices with appropriate load prescription.

·       Apply early mobilization and positioning protocols in the ICU setting and demonstrate safe patient handling in mechanically ventilated patients.

·       Conduct patient education sessions covering self-management, energy conservation, dyspnea management, and lifestyle modification for cardiopulmonary populations.

 

Attitudes & Professional Behaviours (Affective Domain)

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·       Demonstrate ethical, patient-centered practice aligned with IPTA's Code of Ethics and international cardiopulmonary rehabilitation standards.

·       Promote patient safety, dignity, and evidence-based risk management throughout all assessment and rehabilitation interactions.

·       Work effectively within multidisciplinary cardiac and respiratory care teams, respecting the roles of cardiologists, pulmonologists, cardiac nurses, dietitians, and other allied health professionals.

·       Commit to continuous professional development in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and evidence-based physiotherapy practice.

 

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06. CURRICULUM & MODULES

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The program is structured across two components: a mandatory online pre-program learning phase covering foundational knowledge and clinical reasoning frameworks, followed by five intensive face-to-face days organized across four thematic units.

 

Pre-Program Online Learning — Mandatory (Before Day 1)

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All participants complete structured online pre-program learning before attending the face-to-face component. These modules provide the foundational knowledge, clinical reasoning frameworks, and preparatory content required for full engagement with the advanced face-to-face sessions from Day 1.

 

M0-A — Cardiac Anatomy, Physiology & Pathophysiology Review

Hours: 2.5 hrs

Mode: Online (async)

Content: Heart anatomy · Cardiac cycle · Coronary circulation · Pathophysiology of IHD, HF, hypertension, arrhythmias · Post-cardiac surgery considerations · Pharmacology overview for physiotherapists

Assessment: Pre-Program Online Examination (MCQ ≥70% required before Day 1)

 

M0-B — Pulmonary Anatomy, Physiology & Pathophysiology Review

Hours: 2.5 hrs

Mode: Online (async)

Content: Respiratory anatomy · Ventilation and perfusion · Gas exchange · Pathophysiology of COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, ILD, respiratory failure · Respiratory pharmacology overview

 

M0-C — Evidence-Based Foundations of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Hours: 2 hrs

Mode: Online (async)

Content: International guidelines overview (ESC, AHA, BTS, ATS, GOLD) · Evidence base for cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation · Risk stratification principles · Clinical reasoning in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy

 

M0-D — Cardiopulmonary Assessment Tools & Outcome Measures

Hours: 2 hrs

Mode: Online (async)

Content: Auscultation principles · Pulmonary function tests (spirometry, PFT interpretation) · 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) · Modified Borg Scale · CPET overview · Patient-reported outcome measures (CAT, MRC Dyspnea Scale, NYHA classification)

 

Pre-Program Total — 9 hrs

Hours: Online self-study + Pre-Program Online Examination

 

Unit 1 — Cardiac Rehabilitation: Assessment & Phases I–II (Day 1 · 8 Contact Hours)

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M1-A — Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy Assessment & ECG Interpretation

Theory: 2 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Comprehensive cardiac assessment · Auscultation skills lab · ECG interpretation for physiotherapists: normal sinus rhythm, common arrhythmias, ischemic changes · Exercise ECG monitoring · Risk stratification tools (ACSM, ESC criteria)

 

M1-B — Cardiac Rehabilitation — Phase I (In-Hospital) & Phase II (Early Outpatient)

Theory: 2 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Phase I: in-hospital mobilization post-cardiac event/surgery · MET levels and activity progression · Patient education (risk factors, medications, activity guidelines) · Phase II: early outpatient exercise programming · Exercise testing (6MWT, treadmill, cycle ergometer) · Supervised exercise sessions design

 

Unit 1 Total — 4 hrs

Theory: 4 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 8 contact hours

 

Unit 2 — Cardiac Rehabilitation: Phases III–IV, Exercise Prescription & Special Populations (Day 2 · 8 Contact Hours)

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M2-A — Cardiac Rehabilitation — Phase III (Community) & Phase IV (Maintenance)

Theory: 1.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Phase III: community-based cardiac rehabilitation programs · Group exercise design · Psychosocial components · Secondary prevention · Phase IV: long-term maintenance programs · Return-to-work and activity counselling · FITT principle for cardiac populations · High-intensity interval training (HIIT) in cardiac rehab

 

M2-B — Exercise Prescription for Cardiac Populations & Special Conditions

Theory: 1.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Evidence-based exercise prescription: aerobic training, resistance training, flexibility · Exercise monitoring: HR, RPE, Borg, SpO2 · Special populations: heart failure with reduced/preserved ejection fraction (HFrEF/HFpEF), ICD/pacemaker patients, post-CABG, post-valve surgery, atrial fibrillation · Absolute and relative contraindications to exercise in cardiac patients

 

M2-C — Cardiac Rehabilitation Case Study Presentations

Theory: —

Practical / Skills Lab: 1 hr

Key Content: Group case study presentations: 4 groups present cardiac rehabilitation clinical cases · Clinical reasoning discussion and tutor feedback

 

Unit 2 Total — 3 hrs

Theory: 5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 8 contact hours

 

Unit 3 — Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Assessment, Airway Clearance & Exercise (Days 3–4 · 16 Contact Hours)

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M3-A — Pulmonary Rehabilitation Assessment & Outcome Measurement

Theory: 1.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 1.5 hrs

Key Content: Respiratory assessment skills lab: inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation · Spirometry interpretation (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, GOLD staging) · 6MWT administration and interpretation · CAT score, MRC Dyspnea Scale, SGRQ · Functional assessment in pulmonary patients

 

M3-B — Chest Physiotherapy & Airway Clearance Techniques

Theory: 1 hr

Practical / Skills Lab: 2.5 hrs

Key Content: Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT) · Autogenic drainage · Postural drainage, percussion, and vibration · Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) therapy · High-frequency chest wall oscillation · Directed cough and assisted cough techniques · Humidification and nebulisation · Indications and contraindications per diagnosis (COPD, bronchiectasis, CF, ILD)

 

M3-C — Respiratory Muscle Training & Breathing Re-education

Theory: 1 hr

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Inspiratory muscle training (IMT): assessment and prescription (PImax, Threshold IMT, POWERbreathe) · Expiratory muscle training (EMT) · Pursed lip breathing · Diaphragmatic breathing re-education · Positioning for dyspnea relief · Paced breathing and anxiety management in dyspnea

 

M3-D — Exercise Prescription for Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Theory: 1.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 2 hrs

Key Content: Evidence-based exercise prescription for COPD, asthma, ILD, bronchiectasis · Aerobic training: walking, cycling, treadmill, Nordic walking · Resistance training in pulmonary patients · Interval training vs. continuous training in pulmonary rehab · SpO2 monitoring and oxygen supplementation during exercise · Handling exercise-induced bronchospasm and dyspnea exacerbations · FITT principle for pulmonary populations

 

M3-E — Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Design & Patient Education

Theory: 1 hr

Practical / Skills Lab: 1.5 hrs

Key Content: Designing 6–12 week pulmonary rehabilitation programs · Goal setting and shared decision-making · Patient education: smoking cessation, energy conservation, dyspnea management, inhaler technique review, exacerbation action plans · Group rehabilitation program delivery · Community-based pulmonary rehabilitation

 

M3-F — Pulmonary Rehabilitation Case Study Presentations & Article Criticism

Theory: —

Practical / Skills Lab: 1 hr

Key Content: Group case study presentations: 4 groups present pulmonary rehabilitation clinical cases · Article criticism: evidence appraisal in pulmonary rehabilitation · Discussion and tutor feedback

 

Unit 3 Total — 6 hrs

Theory: 10.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 16 contact hours

 

Unit 4 — ICU Rehabilitation, Acute Care & Program Integration (Day 5 · 8 Contact Hours + Examination)

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M4-A — ICU Physiotherapy: Mechanical Ventilation, Positioning & Weaning

Theory: 1.5 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 1.5 hrs

Key Content: Principles of mechanical ventilation: modes, parameters, alarm interpretation · Physiotherapy role in the ICU · Positioning for ventilation-perfusion optimization (prone positioning, lateral positioning) · Secretion management in ventilated patients · Weaning readiness assessment and physiotherapy weaning protocols · Post-extubation physiotherapy

 

M4-B — Early Mobilization in Critical Care

Theory: 1 hr

Practical / Skills Lab: 1.5 hrs

Key Content: Evidence base for ICU early mobilization · ICU Mobility Scale and functional assessment · Passive, active-assisted, and active mobilization protocols · Sitting, standing, and walking in the ICU · Physiotherapy in the ICU for cardiac surgical patients · Safety screening and contraindications for ICU mobilization · Delirium and ICU-acquired weakness management

 

M4-C — Cardiopulmonary Program Integration & Multidisciplinary Practice

Theory: 1 hr

Practical / Skills Lab: 1 hr

Key Content: Integration of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation in mixed clinical presentations (e.g. HF with pulmonary comorbidity, post-CABG with COPD) · Multidisciplinary team roles and communication · Referral pathways · Telerehabilitation in cardiopulmonary practice · Home-based cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation models

 

MF — Final Theory & Practical Examination

Theory: 2 hrs — Written theory exam (1 hr) + Practical OSCE — Direct Observation (1 hr)

Practical / Skills Lab: Written MCQ + Short Answer · Practical OSCE: assessment station + intervention station

 

Unit 4 Total (excl. exam) — 3.5 hrs

Theory: 4 hrs

Practical / Skills Lab: 7.5 hrs + 2 hrs exam = 9.5 hrs

 

Note: Day 5 includes an on-site ICU simulation scenario — participants practice positioning, suctioning setup, early mobilization, and communication in a simulated critical care environment using a skills station.

 

Curriculum Summary

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Online Pre-Program (M0-A to M0-D): 9 hours — online async self-study + pre-program online examination

Unit 1 — Day 1 (Cardiac Assessment & Phases I–II): 8 contact hours — 4 hrs theory · 4 hrs practical/skills lab

Unit 2 — Day 2 (Cardiac Phases III–IV & Exercise Prescription): 8 contact hours — 3 hrs theory · 5 hrs practical/case-based

Unit 3 — Days 3–4 (Pulmonary Rehabilitation): 16 contact hours — 6 hrs theory · 10.5 hrs practical/skills lab

Unit 4 — Day 5 (ICU, Acute Care & Integration): 7.5 hrs theory & practical + 2 hrs final examination

Final Examination (MF — Day 5): 2 hours — Written Theory Exam (1 hr) + Practical OSCE (1 hr)

Total CPD Hours: 48 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited

Theory / Practical Ratio: ~40% theory · ~60% practical, skills lab & case-based learning

 

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07. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

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Minimum Qualification: Physiotherapy degree — Graduates Only. Current students are not eligible.

Prerequisites: Foundational knowledge of cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology is assumed. Completion of all online pre-program modules (M0-A to M0-D) and passing the pre-program online examination (≥70%) before attending Day 1 is mandatory.

License / Registration: Active physiotherapy registration recommended; may be required per local regulations

Language Proficiency: English — translation support available where local arrangements permit

Experience Preferred: Clinical experience in hospital, cardiology, respiratory, or general physiotherapy settings is beneficial but not mandatory for enrollment

Technical Requirements: Stable internet connection and device with access to IPTA e-learning platform for online pre-program component

Pre-Program Obligation: All four online pre-program modules (M0-A to M0-D) and the pre-program online examination (≥70%) must be completed and passed before attending Day 1

Maximum Participants: Small group format as per IPTA guidelines to ensure skills lab quality

 

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08. PARTICIPANT PREPARATION

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Pre-Program Online Learning (Mandatory — Before Day 1)

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All participants must complete the four online pre-program modules (M0-A through M0-D) totalling 9 hours of structured self-study before attending the face-to-face program. These modules cover cardiac and pulmonary anatomy and pathophysiology, evidence-based rehabilitation foundations, and key assessment tools and outcome measures. Access to the IPTA e-learning platform is provided upon enrollment, at least two weeks before the first face-to-face day. A pre-program online examination (MCQ format, ≥70% required) must be passed before Day 1 attendance is permitted.

 

Required Equipment & Materials — Participants Must Bring

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·       Stethoscope — personal stethoscope for auscultation skills lab sessions (Day 1 and Day 3). Essential and non-negotiable.

·       Comfortable clinical attire suitable for practical sessions — lab coat or scrubs required.

·       Pulse oximeter (finger SpO2 monitor) — for exercise monitoring practical sessions. Personal device preferred; limited devices may be available at the venue.

·       Notebook or tablet for case study presentations, clinical planning exercises, and documentation tasks.

·       Borg Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale card — provided in program materials, or participants may bring their own.

 

Lab / Venue-Provided Equipment

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·       Treatment plinths, pillows, and sheets for all practical and skills lab sessions.

·       Airway clearance equipment for skills lab: PEP therapy devices, Flutter VRP1 devices, Acapella devices, and incentive spirometers.

·       Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) devices (Threshold IMT) for respiratory muscle training skills lab.

·       Stationary cycle ergometers or treadmill (where available) for exercise prescription skills lab.

·       ICU simulation station equipment: Ambu bag, suction setup, monitoring display (simulated), hospital bed with tilt.

·       Program workbooks and printed reference materials.

 

Daily Schedule

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Daily Start Time: 09:00 (local time)

Daily End Time: 17:00 (local time) — 8 contact hours including scheduled breaks

Breaks: Multiple scheduled breaks throughout the day, including prayer and lunch break observed locally

Dress Code: Lab coat or scrubs required for all practical and skills lab sessions

 

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09. PROGRAM SCHEDULE

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Pre-Program (Online): M0-A to M0-D: 9 hours online self-study via IPTA e-learning platform · Pre-program online examination (MCQ ≥70%) must be completed and passed before Day 1

Day 1: Safety briefing & orientation · M1-A: Cardiopulmonary Assessment & ECG Interpretation — Theory (2 hrs) + Auscultation skills lab (2 hrs) · M1-B: Cardiac Rehabilitation Phases I–II — Theory (2 hrs) + Exercise testing & programming skills lab (2 hrs) · Pre-program examination debrief and Q&A

Day 2: M2-A: Cardiac Rehabilitation Phases III–IV — Theory (1.5 hrs) + Community program design workshop (2 hrs) · M2-B: Exercise Prescription for Special Cardiac Conditions — Theory (1.5 hrs) + Skills lab: exercise monitoring, ECG during exercise (2 hrs) · M2-C: Cardiac Case Study Presentations — 4 groups (1 hr)

Day 3: M3-A: Pulmonary Assessment Skills Lab — Theory (1.5 hrs) + Respiratory assessment & spirometry interpretation (1.5 hrs) · M3-B: Chest Physiotherapy & Airway Clearance Skills Lab — Theory (1 hr) + ACBT, PEP therapy, postural drainage, assisted cough (2.5 hrs) · M3-C: Respiratory Muscle Training — Theory (1 hr) + IMT/EMT device training, breathing re-education skills (2 hrs)

Day 4: M3-D: Exercise Prescription for Pulmonary Rehabilitation — Theory (1.5 hrs) + Exercise station lab: cycling, walking tests, interval training design (2 hrs) · M3-E: Pulmonary Rehab Program Design & Patient Education — Theory (1 hr) + Program design workshop, patient education role play (1.5 hrs) · M3-F: Pulmonary Case Study Presentations + Article Criticism — 4 groups + evidence discussion (1 hr)

Day 5: M4-A: ICU Physiotherapy — Mechanical Ventilation & Positioning — Theory (1.5 hrs) + ICU skills station: positioning, ventilator awareness, suction setup (1.5 hrs) · M4-B: Early Mobilization in Critical Care — Theory (1 hr) + ICU mobilization simulation (1.5 hrs) · M4-C: Integration & MDT Communication — Theory (1 hr) + Workshop (1 hr) · MF: Final Written Theory Exam (1 hr) + Final Practical OSCE — 2 stations, direct observation (1 hr)

Daily hours: 09:00 – 17:00 · 8 contact hours per day including scheduled breaks · Prayer and lunch break observed locally

 

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10. FACULTY & TUTORS

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All IPTA program tutors hold valid IPTA Tutor Accreditation in the relevant specialty. A minimum of one Program Tutor with recognized expertise in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy is required per delivery. Co-tutors with specific ICU or pulmonary expertise may be engaged for the relevant skills lab days.

 

To be confirmed per intake — Program Tutor

Qualifications & Credentials: Specialist in Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy · IPTA Certified Tutor · Relevant post-graduate qualification in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation or critical care physiotherapy

IPTA Rank: Certified Tutor

Specialty: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation · Critical Care Physiotherapy

 

Co-Tutor — ICU / Pulmonary Specialist — Co-Tutor (Days 3–5)

Qualifications & Credentials: To be confirmed prior to each intake — specialist in pulmonary rehabilitation or ICU physiotherapy

IPTA Rank: Co-Tutor

Specialty: Pulmonary Rehabilitation · ICU Physiotherapy

 

Note: Tutor information is published prior to each program intake. All tutors hold valid IPTA Tutor Accreditation and relevant cardiopulmonary or critical care physiotherapy credentials. For tutor inquiries, contact contact@ipta.academy with program code IPTA-CPR-CERT.

 

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11. ASSESSMENT & CERTIFICATION

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Assessment Strategy

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The CPRCP program uses a multi-modal, competency-based assessment framework spanning both online and face-to-face components. Assessment combines a pre-program online examination, ongoing in-session skills checklists, group case study presentations, article criticism, and a final theory and practical OSCE examination on Day 5.

 

Pre-Program Online Examination (Entry Requirement)

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Conducted online before Day 1. Assesses foundational knowledge of cardiac and pulmonary anatomy, pathophysiology, assessment tools, and evidence-based rehabilitation principles. MCQ format. Pass mark: 70%. Must be passed before attending Day 1 of the face-to-face program.

 

Formative Assessment (Ongoing — Days 1–5)

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Continuous in-session skills checklists following each practical and skills lab session, with immediate tutor feedback on technique quality, clinical reasoning, and patient safety awareness. Results are developmental and inform ongoing learning throughout the program.

 

Case Study Presentations (Group)

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Two rounds of group case study presentations — one cardiac rehabilitation case (Day 2, four groups) and one pulmonary rehabilitation case (Day 4, four groups) — apply program content to real-world clinical scenarios. Presentations develop clinical reasoning, teamwork, and professional communication skills.

 

Article Criticism

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Participants critically appraise a relevant research article in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (Day 4), developing evidence evaluation skills and the ability to translate current international guidelines and research findings into clinical practice.

 

Final Theory Examination (Summative — Day 5)

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Written theory examination assessing knowledge across cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, ICU physiotherapy, exercise prescription, and integrated clinical reasoning. Format: MCQ and short-answer questions. Duration: 1 hour. Pass mark: 70%.

 

Final Practical Examination — OSCE, Direct Observation (Summative — Day 5)

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Two-station OSCE format, direct observation of clinical performance. Duration: 1 hour total. Station 1: cardiopulmonary assessment station (auscultation, outcome measurement, clinical reasoning). Station 2: intervention station (airway clearance technique OR exercise prescription scenario OR ICU positioning and mobilization — as assigned on the day). Pass mark: 70%.

 

Pass Mark

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70% in each summative assessment component (pre-program examination, final theory examination, and final practical OSCE). All three components must be passed independently to receive the CPRCP credential.

 

Re-Assessment Policy

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·       One free theory examination re-sit is available within 60 days of the original examination, conducted online proctored or at an IPTA-approved centre.

·       Practical OSCE re-assessment is available via in-person examination at an upcoming IPTA program batch, or via IPTA-approved video submission within 60 days. An administration fee may apply.

·       Candidates unsuccessful after re-assessment may audit relevant program day(s) of the next intake at a reduced fee before re-attempting.

·       All re-assessments must be completed within 6 months of the original program end date.

 

Certificate & Credential Issued

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IPTA Electronic Program Completion Certificate — Certified Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRCP) — with QR verification code, issued within 48 hours of successful completion of all assessment components. Certificates are verifiable by employers and institutions at www.ipta.academy/verify.

 

Certification Summary

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Credential: Certified Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRCP) — IPTA E-Certificate (digital, QR-verified)

Total CPD Hours: 48 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited

Specialty Endorsement: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation · Cardiac Rehabilitation · Pulmonary Rehabilitation · Critical Care Physiotherapy

Accreditation Bodies: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) · International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN)

 

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12. CPD & ACCREDITATION VALUE

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Note: This program is delivered by the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) — a fully recognized learning provider with the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP No. 10096105), an approved international CPD provider by CPDG-UK (No. #782156), accredited by the International Accreditation Council under ISO 21001:2018 (Educational Organizations Management System), accredited as a further education organization by UK Education Quality Management (UKEQM — www.ukeqm.uk), and officially recognized as an Affiliating Body by the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN). Attendance carries 48 IPTA-accredited CPD hours. Participants are advised to confirm the acceptability of IPTA CPD credits with their local professional registration body or employer prior to enrollment.

 

UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP) — Fully Recognized Learning Provider — No. 10096105

Recognition Status: Fully Recognized Learning Provider — No. 10096105

Additional details: www.ukrlp.co.uk

 

CPD Group UK (CPDG) — Approved International CPD Provider — No. #782156

Recognition Status: Approved International CPD Provider — No. #782156

Additional details: www.thecpd.group

 

International Accreditation Council (IAC) — ISO 21001: 2018 Certified — Educational Organizations Management System

Recognition Status: ISO 21001:2018 Certified — Educational Organizations Management System

Additional details: www.iacouncil.org

 

International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN) — Officially Recognized Affiliating Body

Recognition Status: Officially Recognized Affiliating Body

 

UK Education Quality Management (UKEQM) — Accredited Further Education Organization

Recognition Status: Accredited Further Education Organization

Additional details: www.ukeqm.uk

 

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13. QUALITY ASSURANCE

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All IPTA programs are subject to a structured quality assurance framework to ensure consistent, high-standard delivery across all countries and delivery formats.

 

Scientific Oversight: IPTA Scientific Council reviews all program content for scientific accuracy, clinical relevance, and alignment with current cardiology, respiratory medicine, and rehabilitation evidence and international guidelines.

Program Review Cycle: Every 3 years, or sooner if significant new evidence, updated international guidelines (ESC, AHA, BTS, ATS, GOLD), or clinical practice changes warrant earlier revision.

Peer Review Process: Each program is reviewed by at least two independent subject-matter experts in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy and rehabilitation prior to initial launch and at each revision cycle.

Delivery Monitoring: IPTA Liaison Officers and the Review Committee monitor program delivery quality through tutor evaluations, participant feedback analysis, and assessment outcome data.

Participant Feedback: A structured feedback survey is administered to all participants at program conclusion. Results are systematically analyzed and integrated into the continuous program improvement cycle.

Assessment Moderation: All summative assessments are moderated by a second IPTA-accredited assessor before results are issued and certificates are dispatched.

Tutor Qualification: All program tutors must hold current IPTA Tutor Accreditation in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy or a recognized specialty, and comply with ongoing CPD requirements.

Conflict of Interest: All faculty members complete conflict of interest declarations submitted to IPTA Scientific Affairs. A comprehensive review process ensures objectivity and scientific integrity of all program content.

 

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14. ETHICS & PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

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All participants, faculty, and program organizers are required to adhere to IPTA's ethical and professional conduct standards throughout the program.

 

·       All participants complete the IPTA Code of Ethics declaration prior to program commencement.

·       All faculty members submit conflict of interest disclosures to IPTA Scientific Affairs before each program delivery.

·       Formal informed consent is obtained from all participants before every practical and skills lab session — without exception.

·       Patient and participant safety briefings are conducted and documented before each skills lab session, with specific attention to cardiac safety precautions, emergency response during exercise, and ICU simulation safety protocols.

·       The program adheres to IPTA's Equal Opportunity Charter and is committed to diversity and inclusion in all delivery settings.

·       Data protection and privacy compliance is maintained in accordance with applicable regulations in the host country.

 

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15. DOCUMENT CONTROL

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Document Title: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Certification Program (CPRCP) — Program Description Document

Document Type: Official Program Curriculum Document

Document Owner: IPTA Programs & Scientific Affairs Department

Classification: Official — For authorized distribution

Template Version: IPTA-SPD-Template-v2.0-2025

Program Version: v1.0 — 2025 (Initial release)

 

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For registration and further information:

www.ipta.academy · contact@ipta.academy

 

2nd Floor, College House, 17 King Edwards Road, Ruislip, London, HA4 7AE, United Kingdom

 

Registration No. 17084556-UK

 

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