Cardiology / Pre-op
Duke Activity Status Index
Check all activities the patient can perform without symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, or undue fatigue. The DASI score estimates peak oxygen consumption and METs, guiding perioperative risk assessment.
DASI score
16.95 / 58.20
Estimated VO₂ peak
16.9 mL/kg/min
Estimated METs
4.8
Able to perform daily activities. Proceed with caution for high-intensity procedures.
How to Use This Calculator
Explain the scale to the patient
Clarify that only activities they can perform without limitation should be checked.
Review functional capacity
Higher scores correspond to greater activity tolerance; low scores may prompt further cardiac evaluation.
Incorporate into perioperative planning
Use MET estimates with clinical risk factors (RCRI, biomarkers) to guide testing and optimization before surgery.
Formula
DASI score = Σ(weights of affirmed activities)
Estimated VO₂ peak (mL/kg/min) = 0.43 × DASI + 9.6
Estimated METs = VO₂ peak ÷ 3.5
Values derived from the original DASI validation study (Hlatky et al., NEJM 1989).
Full Description
The Duke Activity Status Index is a validated questionnaire estimating functional capacity without exercise testing. It correlates with peak oxygen uptake and predicts perioperative and cardiovascular outcomes. Clinicians often use it when exercise testing is impractical.
Combine DASI with clinical risk calculators (RCRI, NSQIP) and biomarkers (BNP, troponin) for a comprehensive evaluation. Encourage patients to improve functional capacity through supervised exercise when safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What DASI score equals 4 METs?
Approximately 25 points. Scores below this suggest poor functional capacity.
Can patients self-complete the questionnaire?
Yes, but clinicians should clarify ambiguous items and verify accuracy.
How does DASI compare with 6-minute walk test?
Both estimate functional status; 6MWT provides objective distance walked, while DASI is self-reported.
Is DASI valid for heart failure patients?
Yes, studies show good correlation with peak VO₂ in heart failure and CAD populations.