The Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) is instrumental in evaluating a patient’s physical ability, facilitating healthcare providers in determining a patient’s treatment plan and prognosis. Originating in the mid-20th century, this scoring system has become a cornerstone in oncology and palliative care to assess patient endurance for treatments and their life expectancy.
The Karnofsky Score Calculator simplifies this assessment by translating a patient’s functional status into a numerical value, making it easier for healthcare professionals to communicate and make informed decisions regarding patient care.
Formula of Karnofsky Score Calculator
The formula to calculate the Karnofsky Score is as follows:
Karnofsky Score = (Functional Status / Maximum Functional Status) * 100
- Functional Status: The patient’s current level of functional ability.
- Maximum Functional Status: The highest level of functional ability possible for the patient.
This formula outputs a score ranging from 0 to 100, where a higher score indicates a better functional capacity.
General Terms Table
For ease of use and to assist with quick assessments, below is a table reflecting general terms associated with the Karnofsky Score:
| Karnofsky Score (%) | Functional Status |
|---|---|
| 100 | Normal, no complaints, no evidence of disease |
| 90 | Able to carry on normal activity; minor signs or symptoms of disease |
| 80 | Normal activity with effort; some signs or symptoms of disease |
| 70 | Cares for self; unable to carry on normal activity or to do active work |
| 60 | Requires occasional assistance, but is able to care for most of his personal needs |
| 50 | Requires considerable assistance and frequent medical care |
| 40 | Disabled; requires special care and assistance |
| 30 | Severely disabled; hospital admission is indicated although death not imminent |
| 20 | Very sick; hospital admission necessary; active supportive treatment necessary |
| 10 | Moribund; fatal processes progressing rapidly |
| 0 | Dead |
This table serves as a quick reference for healthcare professionals and patients alike. Streamlining the assessment process without the need for manual calculations.
Example of Karnofsky Score Calculator
Consider a patient who is able to care for themselves but is unable to carry on normal activity or do active work. According to the table above, this patient would have a Karnofsky Score of 70. Indicating they can care for themselves but cannot engage in their regular activities or work.
Most Common FAQs
The Karnofsky Score assesses a patient’s physical ability and functional status to aid healthcare providers. Determining appropriate treatments and predicting patient outcomes.
The Karnofsky Score is calculated using the formula (Functional Status / Maximum Functional Status) * 100, providing a score between 0 (death) to 100 (fully active, no disease symptoms).
While the Karnofsky Score is not a direct predictor of survival rates. It is a valuable tool in evaluating a patient’s ability to withstand treatments. Which can indirectly influence survival outcomes.