What is an indication for stopping an exercise test?

Stopping an exercise test is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual being assessed. A drop in systolic blood pressure greater than 10 mmHg with an increased work rate is a significant indication for discontinuation. This response suggests that the heart is not able to adequately respond to the increased demand for blood flow during exercise, which could indicate potential cardiovascular issues or impairments.

Maintaining adequate blood pressure during exercise is essential for effective circulation and delivering oxygen to the muscles. A decline in systolic blood pressure can result in insufficient perfusion, leading to symptoms like dizziness, weakness, or even loss of consciousness. Therefore, this response serves as an important warning sign that something may be going wrong internally, prompting the need to stop the test for the individual's safety.

In contrast, an increase in heart rate is a normal physiological response to exercise, reflecting the body's demand for increased blood flow. Similarly, a decrease in perceived exertion indicates that the individual may be finding the exercise less challenging, which generally does not warrant termination of the test. Stable cardiopulmonary function means that the individual is maintaining adequate respiratory and circulatory stability during the test, which does not indicate the need to stop the exercise.