Assessment of functional status in the ICU: instruments used in Brazilian settings

Abstract

Introduction: Physical function impairment is a significant concern for patients who survive their intensive care unit (ICU) stay, due to its impact on the patient's independence and functional status. In this context,
the choice of a suitable instrument for the assessing functional status is important, because an inappropriate assessment could lead to incorrect conclusions regarding patient prognosis, treatment benefits, and
condition. Objective: To identify which functional assessment tools are used in Brazil to assess patients who are in ICU. Additionally, we investigated the translation, adaptation, and validation of these instruments for use in this population. Methods: We searched Pubmed, SCIELO, Lilacs, and Scopus in November 2015. No language or date restrictions were applied to the search. Results: Ten studies and seven instruments were identified. The most commonly used instruments were the Karnofsky Performance Status Scale Scores and the Functional Independence Measure. Conclusion: The instruments found in the review were neither specifically developed to assess the functional status of ICU patients, nor were they validated for use in this population in Brazil. Transcultural development or adaptation studies should be conducted, followed by a validation process.