NASA Lean Test

Instructions for 10-Minute NASA Lean Test

Please note you will need assistance and support to complete a NASA Lean Test at home

The NASA Lean Test is a simple clinical test used to screen for orthostatic intolerance, especially in conditions like Long COVID, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), ME/CFS, and other dysautonomias.

STEP 1 Take baseline Heart rate and Blood pressure whilst lying down

Measure and record the heart rate (HR) and Blood pressure (BP) after lying down for 10 minutes.
Repeat a minute later. If repeat vital signs are not similar, retake until two consecutive readings are relatively consistent.

STEP 2 Take measurements over 10-minutes whilst leaning against a wall

Sit up on the edge of the bed, then stand straight up, and lean against the nearest wall, only your shoulder blades should touch the wall. Your heels should be 6 to 8 inches away from the wall. Try to be as relaxed as possible.
Set a timer for 10 minutes.

Once you are positioned against the wall, Try not to move, talk, or shift about during the test, unless you are having symptoms of discomfort.

If you become lightheaded, or feel like you will faint, stop the test, and lie down.

Completing the test

Start the timer
Measure and record your heart rate every minute.
Measure blood pressure at 2, 5, 7 and 10mins (it’s not practical to do BP every minute, or necessary!)
During the test observe any changes to skin colour and temperature or any notable changes in brain function.
Make a note of any symptoms. If your feet and/or hands at end of the test are purple or blotchy, it may be useful to take photographs to share with the clinical team.

Readings can be documented in a table format like the one below.
Please add any additional information you wish to share with your clinicians in the comments section.

NAME:
DATE OF TEST:
TIME:
Beta blocker / Ivabradine taken? (circle) Y / N
If yes, please list drug name, dose and time taken:

Time	Blood pressure reading (BP)	Pulse	Symptoms
Supine (lying down) 1st reading
Supine 2nd reading
Standing 0 minute
Standing 1 minute
Standing 2 minute
Standing 3 minute
Standing 4 minute
Standing 5 minute
Standing 6 minute
Standing 7 minute
Standing 8 minute
Standing 9 minute
Standing 10 minute

Comments:

Instructions for 10-Minute NASA Lean Test

STEP 1 Take baseline Heart rate and Blood pressure whilst lying down

STEP 2 Take measurements over 10-minutes whilst leaning against a wall

Completing the test

NASA Lean Test

Download this in PDF Format Here

Important Information