Related Experiment Videos
Can a Barthel score be derived from the FIM?
K Nyein1, L McMichael, L Turner-Stokes
1Regional Rehabilitation Unit, Northwick Park Hospital, London, UK.
Clinical Rehabilitation
|May 18, 1999
Summary
A new method accurately translates Functional Independence Measure (FIM) motor scores into Barthel Index scores. This provides a reliable way to measure patient rehabilitation outcomes using a common language.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Outcome Measurement
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- The Barthel Index and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) are widely used to assess patient functional status.
- Direct comparison of scores between these measures can be challenging.
- A standardized translation method is needed for consistent outcome reporting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a Barthel score derived from FIM motor items correlates with a directly scored Barthel Index.
- To establish the accuracy and usability of a translation system between FIM and Barthel scores.
Main Methods:
- Developed conversion criteria for FIM motor item scores to Barthel scores.
- Assessed 40 patients using both FIM and direct Barthel scoring by an unaware multidisciplinary team.
- Compared derived Barthel scores with directly scored Barthel Index scores.
Main Results:
- A very high correlation (Spearman's rho = 0.99) was found between total direct and derived Barthel scores.
- No significant differences were observed for individual item scores.
- Absolute agreement ranged from 75-100%, with kappa values from 0.53-1.0.
Conclusions:
- A Barthel Index can be accurately derived from FIM motor items, showing good agreement with direct assessment.
- This translation system offers an accurate and usable method for outcome measurement in rehabilitation.
- It represents a significant step towards a common language for rehabilitation outcome measurement.