Measuring Change: An Introduction to Clinical Outcome Measures in Prosthetics and Orthotics
In today’s demanding and pressured healthcare environment it is
essential that the effects of medical interventions, including prosthetic and
orthotic care, are accurately assessed and recorded. Outcome measures (OMs) are
useful in assessment, clinical decision making and evidencing the outcomes of
treatment to either the service user or third parties. OMs also facilitate
clinical audit and research.
The Measuring Change document is the result of a
one year project by a working group formed by members of the BAPO Professional
Affairs and Education committees. The working group initially conducted a
survey of Prosthetists and Orthotists in the UK to determine existing use and
knowledge of OMs. Following this, a small group of OMs were selected and
literature reviews were conducted to identify the measures’ psychometric
properties in addition to normal data and minimal clinically important
difference values. The included OMs are the numeric pain rating scale (NRS-11),
socket comfort score (SCS), 10 metre walk test (10MWT), timed up and go (TUG)
and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH). The Measuring Change
document includes the results of the reviews, instructions on how to use and
interpret the selected OMs, a summary of the survey results, and an
introduction to relevant psychometric terms and concepts. The primary aim of
the document is to enable Prosthetists and Orthotists to understand and use
simple OMs in clinical practice to improve patient care.
Measuring Change is available
for BAPO members to download from the members section of BAPOnline. Non-members may request
hard copies (paperback,
40 pages, full colour) from enquiries@bapo.com
at a cost of £10.
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