Use of Outcome Measures in Norwegian Neurological Physiotherapy

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the extent of outcome measures (OMs) use in neurological physiotherapy and to collect experiences from this. Methods: A questionnaire wasdistributed to 115 institutions woith Neurological Rehabilitation Department (NRDs) across Norway. The NRD's head physiotherapists were responsible for completing the questionnaire which containedquestions about type and size of NRD and about OMs use. Results and conclusion: Eighty-eight questionnaires were returned, and of these 74 reported treating neurological patients. OMs were routinely used at60 out of 74 (81 percent) responding NRDs. The Barthel Index, the Motor Assessment Scale and the Berg Balance Scale were most commonly used. OMs were mostly used in stroke patients. The reasons for using them were to indicate change for progression and potential, aid patient motivation and help in the categorisation of patients. Lack of experience was the most requent objection for not using OMs.

Keywords

• Neurology
• Physiotherapy
• Outcome Measure
• National Survey