Standard instructions for the 6-minute walk test

The following or similar narrative should be used prior to the administration of each 6-minute walk test so that every patient receives the same instructions each time the test is administered. The narrative is best recorded on audiotape and played to the subject immediately before every test.

This is a 6-minute walking test. Before you start, please listen carefully to the following instructions. During this test you should try to walk as far as you possibly can in 6 minutes. You can choose your walking pace according to how you feel but try to achieve a steady pace throughout the test. Do not be concerned if you have to slow down or stop to rest. If you do stop to rest, try to start walking again as soon as possible. Remember that the goal of this test is to cover as much distance as possible in 6 minutes. I will start timing your walk as soon as you begin. Please start walking now.

Blood pressure measurement procedures

Subjects should have been allowed to rest (seated, with feet flat on the floor) for at least 5 min before blood pressure measurements are obtained.

1. Obtain measurements with the subject in a relaxed, comfortable position with the arm bare (do not apply the cuff or stethoscope head over clothing).

2. Choose the correct cuff size for the size of the subject's arm.

3. The bladder width should encircle 40% of the circumference of the arm. Table D3 will assist the user in choosing the correct cuV size based on measurement of the subject’s arm circumference.

4. […]