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Abstract

Background: The Functional Independence Measure (FIM), a part of the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDSMR), examines key gradations in function from full independence to entire support using a 7-level scale to evaluate performance of essential daily living tasks (18 questions). Objectives: The objectives of this study were to develop a culturally adapted Bangla version of FIM and to test its reliability and validity in stroke patients. Materials and Methods: From March 2013 to February 2014, this observational research was conducted in the departments of physical medicine and rehabilitation and neurology at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Following recognized cross-cultural adaption techniques that Beaton et al., advised, the FIM was translated into Bangla. The final Bangla version of the FIM was then administered to 48 stroke patients for interviews in order to assess reliability and validity, and the same patients were re-interviewed one week later. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), inter-rater reliability, and the intraclass correlation coefficient were used to evaluate dependability (ICC). Three professional physiatrists assessed the content validity, and construct validity was examined by relationship with the SF- 36's Physical Functioning Subscale (PF-10). Results: The Bangla version of the FIM was easily understood by 85-42% of respondents, whereas 10.42%(5) had trouble understanding one item and 4.17%(2) had trouble understanding two (n=48). All FIM items received responses from all participants. It was determined to contain 100% genuine material. The 35% ceiling effect was only seen in the cognitive score. For the overall FIM score, internal consistency was determined to be Cronbach's a = 0.97, and the estimated total FIM Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was 0.95, with 0.92 for the motor subtotal and 0.96 for the cognitive subtotal. When evaluating construct validity, the motor subscale ..........