In an exercise tolerance test, what percentage of maximum predicted heart rate (MP HR) should be attained?

Attaining 85% of the maximum predicted heart rate (MP HR) during an exercise tolerance test is significant because it demonstrates a sufficient level of cardiovascular stress that is necessary for evaluating an individual's exercise capacity and diagnosing potential cardiac issues.

When conducting a stress test, the aim is to push the patient's heart rate to a level that reflects real-world stressors while remaining safe. The threshold of 85% MP HR is generally accepted in clinical practice because it allows for an adequate assessment of the heart’s performance under exertion. This intensity helps in revealing any latent cardiovascular conditions, such as arrhythmias or ischemic heart disease, which might not be evident at lower heart rate levels.

Achieving this level ensures that the test is both effective for clinical evaluation and safe for patients, as it balances the need for reliable data with the consideration of the patient’s safety during exercise.