National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is the best reason for terminating a treadmill exercise test in patients with noted decreased systolic blood pressure?

1. Increase in diastolic blood pressure

2. Decrease in systolic blood pressure

3. Increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure

4. Decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure

The correct answer is: Decrease in systolic blood pressure

The best reason for terminating a treadmill exercise test when a patient exhibits a decrease in systolic blood pressure is based on the significance of blood pressure dynamics during exercise. During a normal exercise test, one would expect an increase in systolic blood pressure due to the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients by the working muscles. A decrease in systolic blood pressure during exercise can indicate a inadequate cardiovascular response, which may signal that the heart is unable to meet the increased demands placed on it or that there could be a risk of adverse events such as myocardial ischemia or other cardiovascular complications. Monitoring systolic blood pressure is crucial during exercise testing, as a drop can suggest that the patient's hemodynamic stability is compromised. Thus, the presence of a decreased systolic blood pressure serves as a red flag indicating that the exercise test should be terminated for the patient's safety, aligning with clinical guidelines for managing individuals undergoing exercise testing.