The Barthel Index (BI) measures the extent to which a person can function independently and is mobile in activities of daily living (ADL), i.e., feeding, bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, bladder and toileting control. , walking and climbing stairs. The index also indicates the need for assistance.
If you want to know What is the Barthel scale and what is it for?we recommend that you continue reading this article that we offer you in Psychology-Online.
Barthel scale: definition
The BI is a measure of the widely used functional disability. The index was developed for use in rehabilitation patients with stroke and other neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorders, but can also be used in oncology patients.
This test is divided into two sections: the parameter (what you want to measure) and the situation (the patient’s condition). Some of those defined on the Barthel scale are: eating, washing, dressing, urination…
Below, we offer you a sample of the Barthel scale
Image: hippocampo.org
Characteristics of the Barthel Index
Below, we show you the main characteristics of this index:
Items
The original form of the IB consists of 10 common ADL activities which include: feeding, bathing, grooming, dressing, bowel control, bladder control, using the toilet, walking and climbing stairs. Items are rated in terms of whether individuals can perform activities independently, with some assistance, or whether they are dependent (with a score of 10, 5, or 0). Items are weighted according to the level of nursing care required.
Punctuation
The score of IB is a sum and there is a preferential weighting on mobility and continence. Scores are assigned as follows: 0 or 5 points per item for bathing and grooming; 0, 5, or 10 points per item for feeding, dressing, bowel control, bladder control, using the bathroom, and stairs; 0, 5, 10 or 15 points per article for transfers and mobility. The index yields a total score of 100 – the higher the score, the greater the degree of functional independence. This score is calculated by simply adding the scores for each item.
Shah, Vanclay, and Cooper (1989) have suggested a modified scoring system that uses a 5-level ordinal scale for each item to improve sensitivity to change detection (1=unable to perform a task, 2=attempts performing a task but in an unsafe manner, 3=moderate help required, 4=minimal help required, 5=completely independent). Shah and Coll. (1989) observe that a score of 0-20 suggests total dependence, 21-60 severe dependence, 61-90 moderate dependence and 91-99 mild dependence.
How is the Barthel scale applied?
In order to apply the Barthel scale or index, you only need a pencil and the test items.
Training
IB administration no training required and has been shown to be equally reliable when administered by trained and untrained people (Collin & Wade, 1988). Furthermore, it can also be self-administered (McGinnis, Seward, DeJong, & Osberg, 1986). However, for patients over 75 years of age, it is not recommended that the BI be administered as a self-report measure. There is the possibility of administering it reliably by telephone.
Time
Administration of the Barthel scale may take 2 to 5 minutes to be completed by self-report and up to 20 minutes to be completed by direct observation.
Validity of the Barthel index
The reliability and validity values of the Bathel scale have been studied since its application and are defined as follows:
Criterion
One study demonstrated good concurrent validity between the Barthel index and the measure of motor-functional independence at the time of admission and discharge.
Predictive
The Barthel index predicts:
- Instrumental performance of ADL at 6 months after stroke
- The likelihood that a patient will regain continence after stroke
- The risk of falls in stroke patients
- Functional recovery after stroke
- The duration of acute hospital care after stroke.
Build
Excellent correlations in stroke patients on the physical mobility dimension of the Nottingham Health Profile Subscale; the Physical Functioning subscale of the SF-36; the Berg Balance Scale; the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale; Frenchay Activities Index.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.