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Table 1 Activity Classification Guide for Inpatient Activities (ACSM score)

From: A mobilization poster stimulates early in-hospital rehabilitation after cardiac surgery: a prospective sequential-group study

Activity class I

Activity class II

Activity class III

• Sits up in bed with assistance

• Does own self-care activities-seated, or may need assistance

• Stands at bedside with assistance

• Sits up in chair 15–30 min, 2–3 times per day

• Sits up in bed independently

• Stands independently

• Does self-care activities in bathroom-seated

• Walks in room and to bathroom (may need assistance)

• Sits and stands independently

• Does own self-care activities in bathroom, seated or standing

• Walks in halls with assistance short distance (15-30 m)a as tolerated, up to 3 times per day

Activity class IV

Activity class V

Activity class VI

Does own self-care and bathes

• Walks in hall short distances (45-60 m)b with minimal assistance, 3–4 times per day

• Walks in halls independently, moderate distances (75-150 m)c, 3–4 times per day

Independent ambulation on unit, 3 to 6 times per day

  1. Table adapted from ACSM’s Guidelines for exercise testing and prescription, 6th edition [19]
  2. Original text: a50–100 ft; b150 to 200ft; c250 to 500ft