Question

A client is having an exercise electrocardiography (stress test) performed. The nurse recognizes the need to stop the test if which of the following occurs?

Answer 1

The nurse should stop the exercise electrocardiography (stress test) if the client experiences chest pain or discomfort, abnormal changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG), or severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should stop the exercise electrocardiography (stress test) if the client experiences any of the following:

• Chest pain or discomfort: This may indicate ischemia or a heart attack.
• Abnormal changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG): This can include abnormalities in the heart rhythm or ST segment changes, which can indicate myocardial ischemia.
• Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This can be a sign of significant cardiac dysfunction or heart failure.

Stopping the test in these situations is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.