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Published on: January 30, 2018
A Multidimensional Rasch Analysis of the Functional Independence Measure Based on the National Institute on
Christopher R Pretz1,2, Jacob Kean3,4, Allen W Heinemann5,6
11 Craig Hospital , Englewood, Colorado.
Journal of Neurotrauma
|November 13, 2015
Summary
This study validates the Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) using Rasch analysis on a large traumatic brain injury database. Results confirm FIM
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Research
- Psychometric Analysis
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Background:
- The Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) is widely used but requires psychometric validation within specific populations.
- The Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Database offers a unique longitudinal dataset for such evaluations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To psychometrically evaluate the FIM™ using Rasch analysis within the Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Database.
- To develop a raw score-to-logit transformation for improved parametric analysis of FIM™ data.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Rasch analysis on data from the Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Database.
- Employed a multivariate Rasch model with time-dependent concurrent calibration.
- Addressed item misfit and step disorder through category collapsing.
Main Results:
- The FIM™ demonstrated three distinct subscales: cognitive, self-care, and mobility.
- Bowel and bladder items were removed due to misfit.
- High internal consistency (coefficient alpha = 0.98) and strong subscale correlations (r = 0.82–0.96) were observed.
Conclusions:
- The FIM™ is a psychometrically sound measure for assessing functional independence in individuals with traumatic brain injury.
- The identified subscales and developed transformation enhance the precision of FIM™ data analysis.
- Keyform maps are provided for improved clinical utility.
