Monitoring Hemodynamic Parameters in the Terrestrial and Aquatic Environment: An Application in a 6-min Walk Test

Walking tests are widely used to evaluate therapeutic options in several patients, including pulmonary and cardiac patients, as they demonstrate functional capacity and possible clinical prognosis. Among the therapeutic options, exercises can be performed in terrestrial and aquatic environments, with the purpose of preventing and promoting health. The objective was to develop an integrated device for the acquisition and monitoring of hemodynamic parameters in terrestrial and aquatic environments during a walk test. It is a pilot study in three stages: device development; application and validation; and data analysis. A device for the acquisition and monitoring of hemodynamic parameters was developed, with the visualization of the sensor variables simultaneously in an LCD display. The step consisted in the validation and application of the instrument by the author herself, where a 6-min walk test was carried out on the ground and in the water. The last step was the analysis and interpretation of the data. With the application of the equipment, it was possible to identify hemodynamic variables in both environments through a walk test, in addition to data visualization and real-time transmission via Bluetooth protocol. The device proved to be easy to apply for monitoring hemodynamic parameters in terrestrial and aquatic environments, presenting good visibility to the health professional, assisting in decision making about the continuity of the conduct. The device becomes applicable in several environments because it is a portable tool and easy to handle.