2.1.10. Stress Test Interpretation

The interpretation of exercise tests comprises ECG analysis, the assessment of chronotropic and blood pressure response, the evaluation of the level of functional capacity, and the presence of symptoms limiting exertion.

Exercise test report for cardiac rehabilitation should include the following information [3,18]:


The test result should also include the age-estimated functional capacity level as demonstrated inn Table 12 [19].


**Table 12.** Functional capacity classification.

Source: Adapted from [19].

### 2.1.11. Arm Ergometry

A mechanically or electrically braked arm ergometer can be applied for selected patients with lower extremity impairment caused by vascular, orthopedic, or neurological conditions—e.g., spinal injury, stroke, or leg amputation [20,21].

Moreover, it can be used for occupational evaluation in patients whose work primarily involves the arms and upper body. For testing purposes, work rate increments of 5–10 watts every 2–3 min at a pace of 60–70 revolutions per minute are suggested [22].
