What’s a functional skills assessment?

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A functional skills assessment is a series of physical tests that are used to assess the work ability of a previously injured or disabled individual. It is usually an intensive process that takes place over the course of a day. The participant is put through a standardized set of exercises that each measure a specific aspect of physical ability. This process is known by many other terms, including functional capacity assessment, physical capacity assessment, and work capacity assessment.

Some of the skills examined in a functional skills assessment include strength, endurance, and range of motion. Flexibility and speed are also often tested. The tests are generally oriented to the individual’s particular condition, taking into account the extent of the injury, the level of pain the patient experiences and the limitations imposed by the impairment. An assessment can also focus on the requirements of a particular job and incorporate specific tasks such as the ability to lift and carry a certain amount of weight.

In addition to determining individuals’ ability to work, the tests in a functional skills assessment can be used as a basis for what is considered an appropriate level of physical ability for a particular job. These criteria can be useful to industries that see certain types of injuries reoccur on a regular basis. Upon completion of the assessment, the tester will determine a specific skill level for the individual.

The effectiveness of the skills baseline depends on the skill level of the professional administering the functional skills assessment. Part of a successful appraisal involves properly analyzing the individual’s performance in each area. It is also important that the tester chooses the mix of exercises that best evaluates an individual for the position in question. A tester may also consider the patient’s specific condition in determining the best way to conduct the assessment.

There are several reasons for conducting a functional ability assessment. It can be used to determine eligibility for reassignment to military service or a particular position. Testing can also play a role in deciding whether an individual is eligible for disability payments. An assessment can be used to determine what type of employment is also appropriate for an individual recovering from an injury. A successful assessment will typically provide the information needed for the individual to move from injury and disability to rehabilitation.

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