American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

What is the average measurement used to evaluate slow walking speed?

1. Distance covered in 10 seconds

2. Average of 3 trials of 15 ft at normal pace

3. Time taken to walk 50 meters

4. Total steps taken in one minute

The correct answer is: Average of 3 trials of 15 ft at normal pace

The choice involving the average of 3 trials of 15 ft at normal pace is the most appropriate measure for evaluating slow walking speed. This method provides a consistent and standardized way to assess gait performance, which is essential in clinical settings. By averaging the times taken across three trials, variability is minimized, leading to a more reliable measure of walking speed. Assessing walking speed over a distance of 15 feet is particularly practical, as it can typically be completed in a short time, making it easier to test in various clinical or community settings. Additionally, this distance is manageable for most individuals, allowing for a more accurate representation of their normal walking capability, and is commonly used in geriatric assessments. Other options, while they may assess aspects of mobility, don't specifically focus on walking speed in the same way. For instance, measuring distance covered in a short amount of time may not account for speed as effectively as an average of trials. The time taken to walk 50 meters is a different standard measure and again does not reflect the standardization and practicality of using 15 feet. Total steps taken in one minute could vary widely based on individual walking pace and does not provide a straightforward measure of speed over a fixed distance.