Volume 44 Number 5 2007
Pages 659 — 664
Abstract - Televideo assessment using Functional Reach Test and European Stroke Scale
Susan E. Palsbo, PhD;1* Stephen J. Dawson, PT;2 Lynda Savard, PT;3 Marc Goldstein, EdD;4 Andrew Heuser, PT2
Abstract — This study explored the equivalence of physical function assessment by physical therapists (PTs) during face-to-face and remote administration of the European Stroke Scale (ESS) and the Functional Reach Test (FRT) to 26 subjects with a history of stroke. Patients were randomized to remote or face-to-face administration groups. Each patient was simultaneously rated by both the face-to-face and remote PTs. The PTs were blinded to each other's results. Equivalence was set at the 95% limits of agreement. When the face-to-face PT directed the patient, the two PTs reported equivalent values in more than 90% of the patients for the FRT and for all ESS components, with the exception of gait (83%) and maintaining leg position (85%). When the remote PT directed the patient, the two PTs reported equivalent values in more than 90% of the patients for the FRT and more than 83% for all ESS components. Televideo assessment of function by PTs is substantially equivalent to a face-to-face encounter.
Key words: European Stroke Scale, functional reach, physical function assessment, physical therapy, rehabilitation, remote assessment, stroke, telemedicine, telerehabilitation, televideo.
