2007 Car​diac Algorithm - Step 4

Functional Capacity Level?

Does the patient have good functional capacity defined as ability to achieve 4+ METs level of exertion without symptoms? Choose the patient’s functional capacity level

Yes, Good Functional Capacity

Non-emergency surgery
No active cardiac conditions
Mod-to-high risk surgery
Good functional capacity

Proceed to Operating Room

Poor or Unknown Functional Capacity
ⓘ functional capacity levels

Poor functional capacity (1-3 METs) activities:

  • Take care of self
  • Eat, dress, use toilet
  • Walk indoors around the house
  • Walk a block or two on level ground at 2-3 mph
  • cardiac symptoms with higher levels of activity

Good and better (4+ METs) functional capacity activities:

  • Do light housework, i.e. dusting or washing dishes
  • Climb a flight of stairs or walk up a hill
  • Walk on level ground @ 4mph
  • Run a short distance
  • Do heavy housework. i.e. scrubbing floors. lifting or moving heavy furniture
  • Moderate recreational activities, ie golf, bowling, dancing, doubles tennis
  • Strenuous sport, i.e. swim, singles tennis, basketball, skiing.