Question

Graded Exercise Test Results (Performed on Day 1 of out-patient cardiac rehabilitation = 14 days post-MI/post-PCI):

VO₂ Peak: 15.75 ml/kg/min

Peak Exercise HR: 108 bpm

Peak Exercise BP: 150/74 mmHg

Notes: No abnormal ECG changes or symptoms of myocardial ischemia (e.g., angina pectoris) occurred during exercise testing. However, Frank did complain of “aching and cramping” in the left thigh and calf when nearing peak exercise, but the pain was relieved after a short period of rest.

6.   Was Frank’s blood pressure response normal during the test? If no, please explain why his BP response was abnormal.

7.   Convert Frank’s VO₂ peak to METs. What does this MET value indicate with regard to his post-MI exercise capacity and prognosis?

8.   Does Frank’s peak exercise HR seem normal, high, or blunted? Explain why.

9.   Comment on Frank’s “cramping.” Why is he experiencing this, and what is the name of this symptom?

Answer 1

Graded exercise test is a most widely used assessment to examine the dynamic relationship between exercise and integrated physiological systems.

6. Frank's had a normal response to the test concerned with his blood pressure. Because Mr. Frank had attained a systolic blood pressure greater than 110 mm of Hg.

7. To convert vo2 peak to METs divide the peak vo2 by 3.5.

15.75/3.5=4.5METs

METs of 5 during an exercise is associated with worse prognosis.

8. The heart rate at peak is 108bpm which is blunted. Because at the peak of exercise patient should achieve a heart of 150-200bpm. Thus indicates a coronary artery disease

9. The cramping pain experienced by Frank is due to little blood flow to the legs. Which indicate reduced cardiac output. The name of the symptom is 'claudication'.