What does the acronym "ADLs" stand for in nursing practice?

The acronym "ADLs" stands for Activities of Daily Living. This term is critical in nursing practice as it encompasses the basic tasks necessary for self-care that individuals typically perform on a daily basis. These activities include bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and mobility, among others. Assessing a patient's ability to perform ADLs provides valuable insight into their functional status and independence, which helps guide care planning and interventions.

Understanding ADLs is essential for nurses and healthcare providers to evaluate a patient's health needs, determine the level of assistance required, and facilitate rehabilitation. Interventions can then be tailored based on the patient’s ability to perform these fundamental tasks, impacting their overall quality of life and care outcomes.