Stress testing should be performed in patients with symptoms suggestive of CAD, including those who are being evaluated for ischemia prior to major non-cardiac surgery. These patients will be prioritized due to the high risk of undiagnosed ischemia or infarction.
Reasonable to consider stress testing in patients with intermediate risk for CAD, especially those with equivocal symptoms. Decisions on the timing of these tests should be made based on clinical urgency.
Stress testing may be considered for asymptomatic patients with high coronary calcium scores or other cardiovascular risk factors, but these cases should be deprioritized unless clinically necessary.
Stress testing should not be performed in low-risk patients where results are unlikely to change management, or where acute non-cardiac illness is present.
In addition to the above alternatives, the following tests can guide decision-making and patient care:
During this period, some patients may be redirected to outpatient facilities with available resources to ensure timely diagnosis. Providers should maintain open, transparent communication with patients about these adjustments and the rationale behind rescheduling or alternative testing.
