Loading...
Clinically important improvements in motor function are achievable during inpatient rehabilitation by stroke patients with severe motor disability : A prospective observational study
Hayward, Kathryn ; Kuys, Suzanne ; Barker, Ruth ; Brauer, Sandra
Hayward, Kathryn
Kuys, Suzanne
Barker, Ruth
Brauer, Sandra
Abstract
Background: A good motor outcome after stroke is often equated with independence in functional performance. However, for patients with severe motor disability a good outcome is unlikely, but an important change may be achievable. OBJECTIVE: Determine if patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation with severe motor disability can achieve clinically important improvements in motor function. METHODS: A prospective observational study of 239 patients with stroke admitted to inpatient rehabilitation in Brisbane, Australia was conducted. On admission and discharge, participants were assessed using the motor items of the Functional Independence Measure (m-FIM). The importance of change achieved on the m-FIM was evaluated according to: 1) a statistical significant outcome; 2) achievement of a MCID based on a physician-anchored rating of change; and 3) shift in disability status e.g., severe to moderate disability. RESULTS: Patients with severe motor disability achieved a significant improvement in motor function (p < 0.001), which saw up to 83% achieve a MCID and 85% shift out of ‘severe’ to either moderate or mild motor disability on discharge from inpatient rehabilitation. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation with severe motor disability can achieve clinically important improvements in motor function on discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.
Keywords
Date
2014
Type
Journal article
Journal
NeuroRehabilitation
Book
Volume
34
Issue
4
Page Range
773-779
Article Number
ACU Department
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled
