The Use of Functional Outcome Measures in Stroke Rehabilitation among Physiotherapists in Klang Valley, Malaysia.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70672/fddpk506Keywords:
Functional status, outcome measure, physiotherapist, private facility, stroke.Abstract
The use of functional outcome measures (OMs) in physiotherapy practice is widely recommended for monitoring stroke patients’ functional status and is considered an integral component of rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to: (1) determine the utilization rate of functional OMs in stroke rehabilitation; (2) evaluate the relationship between OM usage with work experience, level of education, and facility recommendations; and (3) identify common barriers and facilitators affecting the use of functional OMs among physiotherapists. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among physiotherapists currently employed in private healthcare settings in Klang Valley. The result showed that 97.7% of participants acknowledged using functional OMs when managing stroke patients. Facility recommendations showed a significant association with OM utilization frequency (p-value = 0.001). However, years of working experience and educational status did not show a significant relationship with the frequency of use. Participants' positive attitudes toward the use of functional OMs, their belief in the value of OMs, and the perception that OM enable ideal clinical assessment were identified as the main facilitators. The main barriers included a lack of familiarity with OMs and a preference for using impairment OM. This study concludes that most physiotherapists in private facilities in Klang Valley use functional OMs in stroke rehabilitation, and facility recommendations serving as a significant driver for OM adoption.
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