An NYHA functional class IV heart failure would contraindicate exercise. Which description matches class IV?

An NYHA functional class IV heart failure would contraindicate exercise. Which description matches class IV?

• A. Symptoms with ordinary activity.
• B. Symptoms only with heavy exertion.
• C. No symptoms with activity.
• D. Symptoms at rest.

Answer: (D)

NYHA functional classes describe how heart failure symptoms relate to activity, with the most advanced level occurring when symptoms are present at rest. This means the heart cannot meet the body's needs even without exertion, so any activity adds stress and quickly worsens symptoms. Therefore, the description that matches this level is symptoms at rest. Exercise would be unsafe because even minimal effort can trigger fatigue, shortness of breath, or other decompensation signs. (For context, higher functional class numbers indicate more severe limitation, from no symptoms with activity to symptoms at rest.)

NYHA functional classes describe how heart failure symptoms relate to activity, with the most advanced level occurring when symptoms are present at rest. This means the heart cannot meet the body's needs even without exertion, so any activity adds stress and quickly worsens symptoms. Therefore, the description that matches this level is symptoms at rest. Exercise would be unsafe because even minimal effort can trigger fatigue, shortness of breath, or other decompensation signs. (For context, higher functional class numbers indicate more severe limitation, from no symptoms with activity to symptoms at rest.)