Safety of Performing a Graded Exercise Test Early after Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack

Abstract

Background: Low cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a predictor of stroke risk and poor outcome poststroke. Fitness levels are rarely assessed in the acute phase and it is unclear if it is safe for stroke survivors and people with transient ischemic attack (TIA) to perform a graded exercise test to assess fitness. Objective: To determine if people within 14 days post stroke can safely perform a graded exercise test. Design: Observational study. Setting: Research institute. Participants: People with stroke or TIA admitted to an acute stroke unit. Intervention: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Safety of performing a graded exercise test early post stroke. Safety outcomes were (1) occurren..