Scales could be developed based on simple clinical ratings of International Classification of Functioning, Disability...

The aim of the study was to examine whether clinical ratings of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories can be integrated into parametric scales, which provide a reliable estimation of specified patient problems and rehabilitation goals using the example of mobility of the upper and lower extremities in the acute hospital situation.

Psychometrical study based on data from a prospective multicentric cohort study in patients with musculoskeletal conditions in the acute hospital.

Two hundred thirty-four patients were included (mean age 56, 50% female. Forty-four percent with a diagnosis involving lower extremities, 18% with a diagnosis involving the hip, 18% with a diagnosis involving upper extremities, 16% with a diagnosis involving the spine). After adjustment for differential item functioning two separate scales for upper and lower extremity mobility could be constructed. The constructed scales had 10 (upper) and eight (lower) items displaying adequate to good fit.

The results of this study indicate that it could be possible to develop scales based on categories of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Sets. This may be a promising approach for areas where psychometrically sound measures are not available.