Which assessment tool is commonly used to evaluate mobility in ICU patients?

The Barthel Index is a widely recognized assessment tool specifically designed to evaluate the functional mobility and activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients, including those in the intensive care unit (ICU). It measures a patient’s ability to perform tasks such as feeding, bathing, grooming, dressing, bowel and bladder control, and mobility. This index provides a comprehensive view of a patient's independence and functional status, crucial in the ICU setting where mobility can be significantly affected due to illness or prolonged bed rest.

In contrast, the Glasgow Coma Scale is primarily used to assess a patient's level of consciousness and neurological function rather than mobility. The Braden Scale focuses on assessing the risk of pressure ulcers, evaluating sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear, but it does not directly assess mobility itself. The Morse Fall Scale is designed to evaluate fall risk and incorporates factors such as history of falling, secondary diagnosis, ambulatory aid, and medication side effects, but again, does not directly assess the patient's overall mobility capabilities. Thus, the Barthel Index is specifically tailored to mobility assessment, making it the correct choice.