The Impact of Patients’ Cognitive FIM Scores on Motor FIM Item Gains in a Recovery Unit

Abstract

[Purpose] The effect of cognitive Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores on gains in FIM motor item scores was investigated in a recovery ward. [Participants and Methods] One hundred and ninety-seven convalescent patients were divided into two groups, those with FIM cognitive item scores of 24 or less and 25 or more, and the gains in FIM motor item scores were compared between the groups. [Results] Significant differences between the two groups were observed in the items of cleaning, changing upper and lower clothes, moving, and going up and down stairs. [Conclusion] When the score of FIM cognitive items at admission to the ward was less than 24 points, it was difficult to obtain FIM gains in self-care and mobility items. Therefore, we consider it important to actively encourage patients to change their clothes and pursue opportunities to move around the ward from the early stage of hospitalization, as well as to improve the surrounding environment, such as clothing management and the selection of mobility aids.