After discharge, G.P. is referred to a cardiac rehabilitation center to start an exercise program. He will be exercise tested, and an individualized exercise prescription will be developed for him, based on the results of the exercise test

Question

What information will be obtained from a graded exercise (stress) test, and what is included
in an exercise prescription?

Answer 1

• G.P.'s cardiorespiratory responses (pulse, BP, respiratory gases [oxygen and carbon dioxide], and
perceived exertion) to specific workloads will be evaluated to ensure that he can safely exercise in
the intensity range prescribed for him.
• His resting (lowest) and peak (highest) exertional heart rates will be incorporated into the exercise
prescription.
• The exercise prescription will start him at a workload that is not dangerous or emotionally
threatening to him (e.g., slow and easy).
• Just as medications are prescribed (type, dose, time, route), exercise for cardiac patients should be
prescribed in these terms:
• Type of exercise (what kind)
• Intensity of exercise (how hard)—usually as pulse or perceived exertion
• Frequency of exercise (how often)—usually beginning at 3 days per week
• Duration of exercise (how long)—usually measured in minutes or distance
• What is the safest level of activity for G.P., and what problems could develop at what intensity?