Functional Capacity Evaluation
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Definition[edit | edit source]
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is an evaluation of a person's functional capacity in relation to a job's demands. The FCE involves aspects of lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, balance, fine motor, and cardiovascular tolerance. In accordance to the response to these activities, a capacity is determined which is based upon the US Department of Labor's Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT).
Indications, Contraindications, and Considerations[edit | edit source]
There have been indications set forth on when an FCE would be appropriate which are[1]:
- There has been no progress with treatments
- Discrepancies between the subjective complaints given and objective findings present
- Patient shows difficulty in returning to gainful employment
- A determination of functional capacities is needed to plan for job placement and/or case settlement
Contraindications include
- Medical conditions including cardiac, pulmonary or psychological
- Difficulty in communication or understanding of instructions
There are things that must be considered as well before performing the FCE.
- Safety. During the evaluation, the examiner must ensure that the physical demands are within the patient's abilities.
- Medical Stability. The patient may have a known medical condition, however, the examiner understands that the patient has reached a state of complete healing or the location of the symptoms remains consistent, even if the intensity varies.
- Diagnosis. Has the diagnosis been confirmed and is it a preferred diagnosis for the examination
- Chronic Pain. The examination may increase the intensity of pain but the patient remains medically stable
- Recent Surgery. The patient has fully healed from any surgery performed and cleared by the attending surgeon.
- Maximum Medical Improvement. Patient does not have to have reached this and may be deconditioned from the period of inactivity prior to the examination.
- Medical Examination. This is performed by a qualified physician and can include clearance or contraindications for modifications needed for the examination
Programming[edit | edit source]
Research[edit | edit source]
Resources[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Hart, D. L., Isernhagen, S. J., & Matheson, L. N. (1993). Guidelines for functional capacity evaluation of people with medical conditions. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 18(6), 682-686. https://www.jospt.org/doi/pdf/10.2519/jospt.1993.18.6.682