Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value in Katz's and Barthel's ADL indices applied on patients in long term...

There are propositions that two indices of ADL ability, Katz's and Barthel's indices, are exchangeable for each other. Here this is investigated with regard to clinical applicability. The indices are applied on a material of 23 long term care patients. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive value and interassociations are calculated between the indices, and between indices, nurses' judgements of appropriate care level, an index of cognitive ability (PTS), and a physical examination. Results show clear differences between the indices as to specificity and predictive value, plus differences in sensitivity on dichotomised measurement level. Associations between measures are very high, between measures and nurses' judgements and PTS medium high, and low between indices and physical status. It is concluded that the Katz's ADL index should be preferred in a clinical decision-making for appropriate care level.