Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CVRN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Unstable angina is a significant contraindication to physical activity for patients with a history of cardiac disease. This condition indicates that the heart is not receiving enough blood and oxygen, which can lead to severe complications such as a heart attack. When a patient experiences unstable angina, they may have chest pain or discomfort that occurs at rest, or it may be more intense or occur with less exertion than usual. Engaging in physical activity during episodes of unstable angina can exacerbate these symptoms and increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events. Therefore, it is crucial to manage this condition before considering any form of exercise or physical activity to ensure the patient’s safety.

In contrast, while diabetes, depression, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can complicate a patient’s overall health and management plan, they do not inherently present the same immediate threat or acute episode risk as unstable angina does during physical activity. Each of these other conditions may require careful consideration and tailored exercise recommendations, but they do not serve as direct contraindications in the same way unstable angina does.