The Karnofsky Performance Scale is an assessment tool used to assist clinicians and caretakers in measuring a patient's ability to carry out activities of daily living. It is important to assess a patient's performance on a regular basis, especially as the effects of HIV progress.
Documentation of Karnofsky scores may be very helpful if a patient applies for disability benefits, and may be useful for some research applications.
Table 1. The Karnofsky Performance Scale
Description
Percent (%)
Normal; no complaints; no evidence of disease
100
Able to carry on normal activity; minor signs and symptoms of disease
90
Normal activity with effort; some signs and symptoms of disease
80
Cares for self; unable to carry on normal activity or do work
70
Requires occasional assistance, but is able to care for most personal needs
60
Requires considerable assistance and frequent medical care
50
Disabled; requires special care and assistance
40
Severely disabled; hospitalization indicated although death not imminent
30
Very sick; hospitalization necessary; requires active support treatment