Score of Ruscin and Semla for Evaluating a Patient's Ability to Perform Tasks Associated with Taking Tablets or Pills

Parameters:

(1) Able to read the label.

(2) Able to open the safety vial.

(3) Able to interpret the instructions for taking the medication.

(4) Ability to remove and handle the tablets.

(5) Ability to differentiate between colors (and shapes).

total score =

= SUM(points for all 5 parameters)

Interpretation:

• minimum score: 0

• maximum score: 5

• A score of 5 indicates the ability to perform all required tasks.

• Elderly patients with physical or mental disabilities are often unable to complete some or all of the tasks.

• Solutions can be individualized for each patient based on the pattern of difficulty. For example, a patient who has difficulty accessing a safety vial might have the pills dispensed in an alternative container.

Modification of score:

(1) Use a Likert type scale for grading partial abilities.

(2) Adjustments for ophthalmic or liquid preparations.