Question

What are the differences between the Naughton and the Bruce Protocols? What are the pros and cons of each? Which test would you use in a patient 3 days post MI, for potential discharge from the hospital and why?

Answer 1

The differences between these two protocols are

Noughton protocol	Bruce protocol
The metabolic equivalent task is 20 METS They run at a speed 9f 3MPH The elevation is 20% Long exercise duration	The metabolic equivalent task is around 11METS They run at a speed of 5.5MPH The elevation is above 20% Short exercise duration

	Noughton protocol	Bruce protocol
Pros	Same as other stress test The see electrical activity of heart can be monitored continuously	Standardized method Gradually increases its speed in form of stages Risk factors after myocardial infarction can be ruled out Quicker method
Cons	Reversiblility of MI Long duration	Injury to heart muscle Heart attack Contraindicated in case of using certain cardiovascular drugs Lack of accuracy of patient holds the handrails throughout the procedure

Bruce exercise testing are often used to assess the patient after a myocardial infarction, it is comparatively safe and effective than noughton protocol.