Inter-rater Reliability of Activity Limitations by ICF Codes and Qualifiers: ICF Codes Corresponding to FIM

Abstract

Purpose] This study aimed to evaluate the inter-rater reliability of the evaluation scores of activity limitation in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) using the "Criteria for Activities and Participations" proposal. Subjects] The subjects were 10 patients with cerebrovascular disorders living in a support center for people with disabilities. Methods] Two physical therapists (PT) classified each evaluation item of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) into corresponding ICF activity codes. Then, a full-time nurse and a part-time PT scored the activity limitations of each subject and calculated the weighted κ of each evaluated item using a flowchart-type questionnaire for the FIM and the scoring criteria shown in the proposal, "Criteria for Activities and Participations" in ICF. Results] The range of the weighted κ of each item in FIM was 0.44-1.00, and that of ICF was 0.50-1.00. Our results demonstrate high inter-rater reliability for more than 70% of items scored by both evaluations. Conclusion] The results of the present study suggest that the ICF scores of activity limitations are sufficiently applicable to clinical practice using the proposal, "Criteria for Activities and Participations". ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR