Final answer:
A suitable ramp protocol for a maximal exercise test for a 50-year-old female with shortness of breath and a predicted O2 max of 1.8 L/min would be the Bruce protocol.
Step-by-step explanation:
To perform a maximal exercise test for a 50-year-old female complaining of shortness of breath with exercise tolerance and a predicted O2 max of 1.8 L/min, a suitable ramp protocol would be the Bruce protocol. The Bruce protocol is a widely used treadmill ramp protocol that gradually increases both speed and grade over several stages, allowing for a maximal effort to be achieved.
It is commonly used in clinical settings for cardiac stress testing and fitness assessments. The Bruce protocol would provide an appropriate challenge for the patient and allow for the measurement of her maximum oxygen consumption.