Performing the 6-MWT
THORACIC
The 6-MWT was performed on flat ground in a hospital room. In accordance with the guidelines of the American Society of Thoracic Surgery, the total length was 30 meters (m). Marks were made at every 3 m, and there were signs at the turn-back point. Participants were instructed to walk with the following information:(1) Objective of the test: to walk as far as possible for 6 min. Running or jogging is not allowed. (2) Rest periods during the test: as 6 min is a long time to walk, the patient will be exerting him/herself. If he/she gets out of breath or becomes exhausted, they are permitted to slow down, stop, and rest as necessary. He/she may lean against the wall while resting, but he/she must resume walking as soon as he/she is able. (3) Route to walk (with a practical example by the physician or other trained personnel): position the patient at the starting line and stand near the starting line during the test. The physician/technician cannot walk with the patient. Invite the patient to start walking as soon as he/she is ready.