6 Minute Walk Test Flashcards
How is the 6 minute walk test scored?
Distance covered in six minutes is calcualted by multiplying the number of total laps by 12 meters, then adding the distance of the partial lap completed at the time the test ended
Considerations for 6mwt
Document any assistive device/bracing used
Document the amount of assistance
If a pt requires total assistance, is unable to ambulate, or requires assistance for limb swing or forward propulsion, a score of 0 should be documented
What happens if the pt needs to sit and rest during the 6mwt?
If they stop that distance is recorded and the test is terminated
What is the 6 minute walk test?
* What does it tell us?
Sub maximal exercise test used to assess walking endurance and aerobic capcity. Participants will walk a set circuit for a total of six minutes
How do you score the 6 minute walk test?
The score of the test is the distance a patient walks in 6 minutes (measured in meters and can round to the nearest decimal point)
What is the minimum distance the hallway should be for the 6mwt
12 meters
other things you need:
* Stopwatch
* Chair
* Measuring instrument (meters)
* Two objects to indicate turnaround
* Mechanical lap counter or pencil and paper
How should the pt be positioned prior to the start of this test?
Prior to adminstration the pt should be sitting in a chair, rested, near the starting point of the test
What to tell the pt:
“The aim of this test is to walk as far as possible in the next 6 minutes. You will walk back and forth in the hallway. Six minutes is a long time to walk, so you will be exerting yourself. YOu may get out of breath or become tired. You are allowed to slow down, to stop, and to rest as necessary. You may stand and rest, but resume walking as soon as you are able - however, sitting down ends the test
* walk around the object at each end. I am going to use this counter to keep track of the laos you complete. Reemeber the aim is to walk as far as possible, but do not run or jog.
* pt may use any assitive device they are currently using
* you should be behind the pt - avoid pacing the pt
Distance covered in six minutes is calculated by multiplying the number of total laps by 12 meters and adding the distance of the partial lap completed at the time the test is ended
What two things can this test perdict?
Mortality and morbidity for pts w/ cardiovacular disease
Used to assess submaximal aerobic/ functional capacity.
-Used for walking endurance
Normative Data:
In older Adults
60-69 years old:
Males: 572m
Females: 538
70-79 years old:
Males: 527 meters
Females: 471 meters
80-89 years old:
Males: 417meters
Females: 392 meters
