Affiliations: University Rehabilitation Center Beatrixoord, Haren,
The Netherlands | Institute for Movement Sciences, University of
Groningen, The Netherlands | Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital
Groningen, Institute for Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, The
Netherlands
Note: [] University Rehabilitation Center Beatrixoord, P.O. Box 30002,
9750 RA Haren, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 50 5338550; Fax: +31 50 5338550;
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: {\it Objectives:} To establish inter- and intra-rater reliability of
observations in a functional capacity evaluation. {\it Background:} Functional capacity evaluations are used to assess
a person's functional capacity as it relates to work. Lifting and carrying are
important aspects of a functional capacity evaluation. An evaluator determines
the patient's levels of effort through standardized observations. Questions
remain with regards to the reliability of these observations. {\it Methods:} Four healthy subjects were videotaped while
performing two lifts and four carries with progressive loads. The videotape was
scrambled randomly and viewed twice by 3 physical therapists and 2 occupational
therapists. The evaluators determined the amount of effort it required (light,
medium, heavy, and maximum). The inter- and intra-rater reliability of the
observations was expressed by means of percentage agreement. {\it Results:} Inter-rater reliability ranged 87--96%, intra-rater
reliability ranged 93--97%. {\it Conclusion:} The results indicate that by means of standardized
observations, therapists can reliably determine effort level during lifting and
carrying in healthy subjects, and thus affirm the findings of other studies of
similar design.
Keywords: interrater reliability, intrarater reliability, observational criteria, manual material handling, maximum effort
