ACSM-EP Clinical Exercise Testing 2

Question 1

Which absolute contraindication requires immediate termination of a graded exercise test?

Accepted Answer

Systolic BP drop >10 mmHg from baseline with increasing workload

Answer

A drop in systolic BP of >10 mmHg from baseline despite increasing workload is an absolute indication to stop the test due to risk of cardiovascular collapse.

Question 2

During a maximal GXT, a patient develops ST-segment depression of 3 mm at 70% of predicted max HR. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Terminate the test immediately

Answer

ST depression ≥2 mm is an absolute indication to stop the test because it suggests significant myocardial ischemia.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a cool-down period following a maximal exercise test?

Accepted Answer

To prevent venous pooling and reduce risk of post-exercise hypotension

Answer

Active cool-down maintains venous return via muscle pump action, preventing the venous pooling that can cause orthostatic hypotension after exercise ceases.

Question 4

In the Bruce treadmill protocol, how do workload increments change between stages?

Accepted Answer

Both speed and grade increase simultaneously every 3 minutes

Answer

The Bruce protocol increases both treadmill speed and percent grade simultaneously at each 3-minute stage.

Question 5

Which spirometry value is most useful for detecting obstructive pulmonary disease before an exercise test?

Accepted Answer

FEV1/FVC ratio

Answer

A reduced FEV1/FVC ratio (<0.70) is the hallmark diagnostic criterion for airflow obstruction in conditions like COPD and asthma.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM-EP Clinical Exercise Testing 2