Exercise ECG

Question 1

What is Exercise ECG’s use?

Answer 1

Assesses cardiac responce to exercise

Question 2

What are the indications for an Ex ECG?

Answer 2

• IHD (& vasospastic [Prinzemetal’s variant] angina)
• Post-MI
  
  • Pre-discharge (d4-7, assess prognosis, determine exercise program, evaluate treatment)
  • Late post-discharge
• Pre/post-revascularization
• Evaluation of arrhytmias

Question 3

Explain the procedure of Ex. ECG

Answer 3

12-lead ECG & BP recorded whilst patient walks or runs on a treatmill Test is performed to a standardized method (Bruce protocol)

Question 4

Outline potential resultsof / indications for stopping an Ex. ECG

Answer 4

Normal: inc HR & BP Chest pain ST depression (>1mm) [exertional ischaemia] BP Fall (>20mmHg) [sustained indicates severe CAD] HR Fall [slow recovery: lower mortality] BP >240/110 Significant arrhythmias/ ventricular ectopics

Question 5

What are contraindications to Ex. ECG?

Answer 5

Unstable angina Severe HCM Severe aortic stenosis Malignant hypertension