Parameters:
(1) P: physical condition (general health status)
(2) U: upper limb function (self-care, drinking, eating, dressing, donning brace or prosthesis, washing, bathing, perineal care)
(3) L: lower limb function (mobility, transferring to chair/toilet/tub/shower, walking, climbing stairs, propelling wheelchair).
(4) S: sensory functions (sight, communication by speech and hearing)
(5) E: excretory functions (control of bladder and bowel sphincters)
(6) S: support factors (psychological, emotional, family, social, financial)
Responses are from 1 (minor) to 4 (severe)
PULSES score =
= SUM(points for the 6 factors-functions)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 6, indicating total independence
• maximum score: 24, indicating complete dependence
• A score >= 12 identifies those who are more severely disabled. This corresponds to a Barthel score of <= 60.
• A score >= 16 indicates very severe disability.
