Which of the following is considered an absolute contraindication to exercise testing?

Unstable angina is indeed classified as an absolute contraindication to exercise testing. This means that individuals experiencing this condition should not participate in exercise testing due to the significant risk of exacerbating their cardiac issues during physical exertion. Unstable angina is characterized by changes in the pattern of chest pain, including increased frequency, duration, or intensity, and may occur at rest or with minimal exertion. Because of this instability, engaging in exercise could precipitate serious cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack.

In contrast, hypertension may be managed and may allow for controlled exercise testing under specific circumstances. Well-controlled diabetes does not generally pose a risk during exercise testing if blood glucose levels are monitored appropriately. A previous myocardial infarction that occurred over two weeks ago would typically indicate that the individual has had sufficient time to recover, and with medical clearance, they may safely participate in exercise testing.