6 Minute Walk Test
The 6 minute walk test is a test designed to measure both your pulmonary and cardiac function. The 6 minute walk test is performed in a premeasured hospital corridor. You will walk at your own pace trying to cover as much distance as possible in 6 minutes.
How should I prepare
You should wear loose fitting and comfortable clothing.
Shoes that are suitable for walking
No medications need to be with withheld prior to the test
What happens when I get there
* The pulmonary function technicians will measure your resting blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation upon arrival.
* A pulse oximeter probe for the saturation reading will be placed on your finger.
* You will begin walking at your own pace. A technician will walk along with you in order to take saturation and heart rate readings every 30 seconds. The test will end after 6 minutes but you can rest any time you feel necessary.
* You will be asked to rate your level of dyspnea (shortness of breath) using the dyspnea scale system where 0=none and 10=severe. The technician will explain this to you. After you have rested your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation will be taken.
* The total distance walked in feet will be calculated and recorded as well as your walking pace; (1) slow, (2) moderate, (3) fast.
This information will then be given to your physician.
Six Minute Walk Tests are performed on the 6th floor of Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in the Bryan Diagnostic Center .
Our center is staffed by specially trained respiratory therapists and technicians.
If your doctor has requested that a Six Minute Walk Tests be performed on your child, you can call 216-844-TEST to set-up an appointment.