Validation of extended international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) core set for stroke in post-acute stroke rehabilitation using FIM Scoring

Abstract

Objective: To validate the extended International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets for stroke in the functional assessment of post-acute stroke patients.

Method: The validation, cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2020 in the Physiotherapy departments of selected private and public hospitals located in Lahore, Pakistan including Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital, Ittefaq Hospital, Shalamar Hospital and the National Hospital, Lahore. Stroke patients of either gender aged at least 18 years 3 days post-diagnosis were recruited, general information regarding patient demographics, category of stroke, and the involved side was documented, while data about function and disability was gathered using semi a structured questionnaire based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets categories of “Activity and Participation” through interviews. The functional independence measure was administered during the interview. Data was analysed using SPSS 22.

Results: Of the 82 patients with mean age 62.13±9.40 years, 60(73.2%) were males and 22(26.8%) were females. Internal consistency of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets with total score had a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.847 for cognitive, 0.911 for motor, 0.817 for communication and 0.728 for social scores. The correlation value between International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets and functional independence measure total score was strongly negative (-0.735).

Conclusion: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health core sets for stroke could be used as a valid assessment tool to asses the functional status of post-acute care stroke patients.

Key Words: International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, Stroke, Stroke rehabilitation, Post-acute care.