What activity is specifically assessed by the Barthel index?

What activity is specifically assessed by the Barthel index?

• A. Social interaction
• B. Muscle strength
• C. Transfer ability
• D. Medication management

Answer: (C)

The Barthel index is specifically designed to assess an individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and focuses on measuring functional mobility and transfer abilities. This assessment evaluates activities such as getting in and out of bed, moving from a wheelchair to a chair, and other related tasks that require transferring from one position to another. By quantifying a person’s independence in executing these daily functions, the Barthel index helps healthcare providers understand the level of assistance a patient may need and to develop suitable rehabilitation plans. While social interaction, muscle strength, and medication management are important components of overall patient care, they are not the primary focus of the Barthel index. It is specifically centered around functional mobility, making transfer ability a core area of assessment.

The Barthel index is specifically designed to assess an individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and focuses on measuring functional mobility and transfer abilities. This assessment evaluates activities such as getting in and out of bed, moving from a wheelchair to a chair, and other related tasks that require transferring from one position to another. By quantifying a person’s independence in executing these daily functions, the Barthel index helps healthcare providers understand the level of assistance a patient may need and to develop suitable rehabilitation plans.

While social interaction, muscle strength, and medication management are important components of overall patient care, they are not the primary focus of the Barthel index. It is specifically centered around functional mobility, making transfer ability a core area of assessment.