Related Experiment Videos
Implementation of functional assessment scales in geriatric practice: a feasibility study
Ingrid Poulsen1, Bjørn Hesselbo, Inge Pietersen
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg, Denmark. ingrid.poulsen@omv.lu.se
Scandinavian Journal of Public Health
|August 10, 2005
Summary
Functional assessment scales are feasible for documenting geriatric rehabilitation patient progress. These scales provide valuable data on functional status and improvement during hospitalization, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Rehabilitation
- Healthcare Outcomes Research
Background:
- Geriatric rehabilitation requires effective tools to measure patient progress.
- Functional assessment scales are crucial for documenting changes in daily living activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of using functional assessment scales in geriatric rehabilitation.
- To evaluate the completion rates and documentation of functional changes using these scales.
Main Methods:
- Five functional assessment scales were implemented in standard care.
- Scales were administered to patients upon admission and discharge.
Main Results:
- A high percentage of patients (82.9%) had at least one scale administered.
- Significant improvement in basic Activities of Daily Living (ADL) independence was observed (30% to 60%).
- High prevalence of cognitive impairment (53%) and depressive symptoms (19%) at admission was noted.
Conclusions:
- Functional assessment scales are practical for routine clinical use in geriatric rehabilitation.
- These scales effectively capture baseline functional status and document patient improvement.
- Successful implementation relies on interdisciplinary teamwork and management strategies.