Functional Capacity Index

Functional Capacity Index (FCI) is a medical assessment tool used to measure an individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). It is often used in rehabilitation medicine and geriatrics to evaluate a patient's functional status and to guide treatment planning.

Overview

The Functional Capacity Index is a quantitative measure of a person's ability to perform activities of daily living. These activities include tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and mobility. The FCI is often used in conjunction with other assessment tools, such as the Barthel Index and the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, to provide a comprehensive picture of a patient's functional status.

Assessment

The FCI is typically assessed by a healthcare professional, such as a physician, nurse, or occupational therapist. The assessment involves observing the patient performing various tasks and rating their ability on a scale. The total score is then calculated, with a higher score indicating a greater level of functional independence.

Applications

The Functional Capacity Index is used in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. It is particularly useful in the field of geriatrics, where it can help to identify individuals who may be at risk of functional decline or disability. The FCI can also be used to monitor a patient's progress during rehabilitation and to guide treatment planning.

Limitations

While the FCI is a valuable tool in assessing functional capacity, it does have some limitations. For example, it may not accurately reflect the functional abilities of individuals with certain conditions, such as cognitive impairment or neurological disorders. Additionally, the FCI is a subjective measure and may be influenced by the observer's perceptions and biases.

See also

• Barthel Index
• Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living
• Rehabilitation medicine
• Geriatrics

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