From the Guidelines
The approach to evaluate functional assessment involves a comprehensive process that begins with clearly defining the purpose and goals of the assessment, as outlined in the 2021 study by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association 1.
Key Components of Functional Assessment
The evaluation process should include the following key components:
- Selecting appropriate assessment tools based on the individual's specific needs, such as standardized tests, questionnaires, direct observation, and interviews
- Gathering information from multiple sources, including the individual, family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals
- Conducting the assessment in the person's natural environment whenever possible to obtain the most accurate representation of their functional abilities
- Evaluating both basic activities of daily living (BADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs)
- Considering physical, cognitive, emotional, and social factors that may impact function
Assessment Tools and Techniques
The use of standardized assessment tools, such as the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) or the Barthel Index, can help to objectively document the overall functional status of a patient, as noted in the 2005 study on management of adult stroke rehabilitation care 1. Additionally, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework can be useful in assessing functional abilities and determining the extent of problems and strengths, as discussed in the 2008 study on prescribing assistive-technology systems 1.
Importance of Interdisciplinary Team
The evaluation of functional assessment is best performed by an interprofessional team, including rehabilitation professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, rehabilitation nurses, and rehabilitation physicians, as emphasized in the 2021 study by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association 1. This team approach ensures a comprehensive assessment of the individual's functional needs and facilitates the development of an individualized intervention plan.
Goal Setting and Intervention Planning
After collecting data, the results should be analyzed to identify strengths, limitations, and potential areas for intervention. Specific, measurable goals should be developed based on the assessment findings, and an individualized intervention plan should be created, as outlined in the example answer. This systematic approach ensures a thorough understanding of functional capabilities and limitations, allowing for targeted interventions that can improve quality of life and independence.
From the Research
Approach to Evaluating Functional Assessment
The approach to evaluating functional assessment involves a comprehensive and multidimensional evaluation of an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. This can be achieved through various methods, including:
- Utilizing the Patient Evaluation Conference System (PECS) to guide treatment and assess program effectiveness 2
- Using screening tools such as the clock test, the Mini Mental State Examination, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment to rapidly identify cognitive dysfunction 3
- Administering standardized questionnaires like the Functional Status Questionnaire (FSQ) to provide a comprehensive assessment of physical, psychological, social, and role function 4
- Conducting a detailed cognitive examination at the bedside to precisely diagnose cognitive dysfunction 3
Key Components of Functional Assessment
The key components of functional assessment include:
- Evaluating physical functioning, including instrumental activities of daily living 5
- Assessing cognitive functioning, including attention, memory, language, and frontal functions 3
- Examining emotional functioning, including psychological and social functioning 4
- Considering economic resources, informal social supports, and utilization and perceived need for services 5
Tools and Methods for Functional Assessment
Various tools and methods can be used for functional assessment, including:
- The Functional Status Questionnaire (FSQ) 4
- The Patient Evaluation Conference System (PECS) 2
- Screening tools like the clock test, the Mini Mental State Examination, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment 3
- Detailed cognitive examinations at the bedside 3
- Systematic and multidimensional assessments that cover physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning 5