Data from the test, other than ECG changes, should be taken into consideration when interpreting the exercise stress test since it has a strong prognostic value, i.e. workload, heart rate rise and recovery and blood pressure changes.
In the early days post MI (days 3–7), a low level stress test limited to 5 METS, 75% of MPHR or 60% of MPHR on β–blockers, is very helpful in patients who were treated conservatively with no revascularization to assess for ischemia at low workload, arrhythmias, to start cardiac rehabilitation and gaining self confidence.
In conclusion, exercise stress testing is noninvasive, safe, easy to perform and is available in most hospitals and clinics. It can be very helpful in diagnosing, risk stratifying or assessing cardiac patients provided appropriate patient selection is used to enhance its sensitivity and specificity.
Late post-MI (4–6 weeks), symptom limited stress testing is usually performed to assess revascularization, medical therapy or need for any further intervetions. EKG interpretation with pharmacologic stress testing