Duke Activity Status Index (DASI): Functional Capacity

The Duke Activity Status Index is a survey that assesses functional capacity. It helps doctors estimate heart health during daily tasks to predict surgical risks and plan patient care.

Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) PDF assessment form for functional capacity
DASI

Duke Activity Status Index (DASI)

The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a brief survey used to estimate functional capacity. By asking about daily tasks, it predicts peak oxygen uptake to assess cardiovascular health. This tool helps doctors evaluate surgical risks and physical fitness without requiring complex exercise testing.

Category

Physical health
Mobility
Rehabilitation

Disease

Assessment
Clinical Measurement
Clinical Care
Rehabilitation

Source

(Hlatky et al., 1989)

Author Name

Hlatky, M.A., Boineau, R.E., Higginbotham, M.B., et al. (1989)

What is Duke Activity Status Index (DASI)

The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a practical tool for checking functional capacity. It helps clinicians estimate peak oxygen uptake easily. This brief questionnaire consists of 12 simple items about daily life. It looks at how well a person handles personal care, housework, and regular exercise. Each question is weighted based on the known metabolic cost of the specific task. Patients simply answer yes or no to activities like walking up stairs or doing yard work. The final score ranges from 0 to 58.2, giving a clear picture of physical fitness and heart health. Clinicians value the DASI because it is quick to finish and score. It is commonly used in cardiac rehabilitation and preoperative clinics to spot potential risks early. Since it does not need a treadmill, it is a smart choice for patients who cannot manage heavy exercise testing, making care planning smoother.

DASI Scoring

The Duke Activity Status Index can be scored using a single weighted approach based on metabolic cost. It involves 12 questions about daily tasks like walking or housework. Each item carries a specific weight reflecting the energy needed to do it. To get the result, you simply add up the weights for every "Yes" answer. Scores range from 0 to 58.2, where higher numbers show better functional capacity. Doctors frequently use this final tally to estimate peak oxygen uptake, giving a clear picture of a patient's heart health and ability to handle physical stress.

View scoring form

Advantages

Treatment planning

Develops personalised strategies based on assessment data.

Efficient collection

Streamlines research data gathering process.

Diagnostic accuracy

Enables precise identification of patient health status.

Telehealth ready

Enables remote healthcare assessment capabilities.

5
Minutes
12
Questions

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