In acute care-standing, which activity is described as an IADL?

• A. Leaving the room for axs if able
• B. Going outside to hospital garden
• C. Writing a card
• D. Grooming

Answer: (A)

In acute care, activities are split into basic self-care (ADLs) and more complex tasks that enable independent living in the community (IADLs). Leaving the room to go somewhere else to handle errands, if you’re able, is a community mobility task that requires planning, safety judgment, and navigation beyond basic self-care. That combination is what makes it an IADL. Grooming stays within the realm of ADLs—it's a fundamental self-care activity. Writing a card involves communication and planning, which can be viewed as an IADL, but the scenario that clearly demonstrates independent, real-world functioning in the community is leaving the room for errands. Going outside to the hospital garden is more about participation in a therapeutic or recreational activity rather than independently managing an IADL.