Standardized Assessment Use in Stroke Rehabilitation: Findings From a Cross-Sectional Survey of Occupational Therapy Practitioners

Abstract

Standardized outcome measures, like the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), support stroke rehabilitation; however, occupational therapy practitioners report minimal use due to limited knowledge, time, and administrative support. The objective of this study was to examine practitioners’ perceived acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of using the FMA-UE, attitudes toward standardized outcome measures, and strategies to support use. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Acceptability of Intervention Measure, Intervention Appropriateness Measure, Feasibility of Intervention Measure, and Evidence-Based Practice Attitudes Scale. Spearman correlations assessed relationships among variables. Practitioners (n = 102) perceived the FMA-UE as acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. Acceptability (r = .34, p < .001), appropriateness (r = .35, p < .001), and feasibility (r = .32, p < .01) were significantly correlated with openness to FMA-UE use. Despite positive perceptions of the FMA-UE and outcome measures, consistent implementation remains limited. Further research should examine strategies to enhance use.

Plain Language Summary

Standardized assessment use in stroke rehabilitation: Findings from a cross-sectional survey of occupational therapy practitioners

Standardized assessments, like the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), help practitioners assess motor impairments following a stroke. However, occupational therapy practitioners within stroke rehabilitation have reported inconsistently using these assessments due to limited time, lack of knowledge, and low administrative support. This study surveyed 102 occupational therapy practitioners to understand their perceptions of using the FMA-UE in practice and their attitudes toward evidence-based practices. Results indicated that practitioners viewed the FMA-UE as acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. Practitioners with positive perceptions of the FMA-UE were generally more willing to use standardized assessments in practice. Despite these positive perceptions and attitudes, the FMA-UE and standardized assessments in general are still underutilized in stroke rehabilitation. Future research should focus on identifying strategies to support consistent use of standardized assessments.