A Comparison of the NYHA Classification and the Duke Treadmill Score in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease

Aim: A discussion of the measurement of functional status in cardiovascular research. Background: Selection of appropriate outcome measures and instrumentation is vital for nurse researchers to ensure that outcomes align conceptually and are measured using reliable and valid tools. Functional status is a well-known outcome in cardiovascular research—however attention to underlying conceptual differences that may influence choices of whether to include subjective or objective measures is needed. Design: This work is a discussion paper: seminal research reporting the development, validation, and reliability testing of the NYHA classification system and the Duke Treadmill Score. Implications for nursing: Conceptually clarity and comprehensive appraisal of the reliability and validity of outcome measures in nursing research are essential to ensure high level of quality outcomes that will benefit patients.