Clinical Interpretation of Outcome Measures Generated From a Lumbar Computerized Adaptive Test
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abstract
BackgroundA computerized adaptive test (CAT) provides a way of efficiently estimating functional status in people with specific impairments.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to describe meaningful interpretations of functional status (FS) estimated using a lumbar CAT developed using items from the Back Pain Functional Scale (BPFS) and selected physical functioning items.Design and SettingThis was a prospective longitudinal cohort study of 17,439 patients with lumbar spine impairments in 377 outpatient rehabilitation clinics in 30 states.Outcome MeasuresPatient self-reports of functional status were assessed using a lumbar CAT (0–100 scale).MethodsOutcome data were interpreted using 4 methods. First, the standard error of the estimate was used to construct a 95% confidence interval for each CAT estimated score. Second, percentile ranks of FS scores were presented. Third, 2 threshold approaches were used to define individual patient–level change: minimal detectable change (MDC) and clinically important change. Fourth, a functional staging model, the Back Pain Function Classification System (BPFCS), was developed and applied.ResultsOn average, precision of a single score was estimated by FS score±4. Based on score distribution, 25th, 50th and 75th percentile ranks corresponded to intake FS scores of 44, 51, and 59, and discharge FS scores of 54, 62, and 74, respectively. An MDC95 value of 8 or more represented statistically reliable change. Receiver operating characteristic analyses supported that changes in FS scores of 5 or more represented minimal clinically important improvement. The BPFCS appeared clinically logical and provided insight for clinical interpretation of patient progress.LimitationsThe BPFCS should be assessed for validity using prospective designs.ConclusionsResults may improve clinical interpretation of CAT-generated outcome measures and assist clinicians using patient-reported outcomes during physical therapist practice.
