National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

During Phase I cardiac rehabilitation, which symptom necessitates the cessation of exercise?

1. Persistent dyspnea and diaphoresis

2. Diastolic BP that stays the same at rest and with exercise

3. HR increases to 15 beats/min over resting rate

4. RPE of 9 (6-20 scale)

The correct answer is: Persistent dyspnea and diaphoresis

During Phase I cardiac rehabilitation, the focus is on safely increasing a patient's physical activity while monitoring vital signs and symptoms to prevent adverse events. The presence of persistent dyspnea and diaphoresis is a significant indicator of complications during exercise. Persistent dyspnea refers to a continuous feeling of shortness of breath that cannot be alleviated, indicating that the patient may not be tolerating the exercise well. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is often a sign of physiological stress that may occur during exertion, particularly in patients who have undergone cardiac events. Together, these symptoms suggest that the body is struggling to maintain adequate cardiovascular function and can indicate a risk for complications, such as myocardial ischemia or other cardiovascular events. Recognizing these symptoms as warning signs, exercise should be ceased to ensure the safety of the patient, allowing time for assessment and intervention as necessary. Prioritizing cardiovascular safety is crucial during rehabilitation phases, and addressing these alarming symptoms is an important aspect of effective patient management in this setting.