Rancho Los Amigos Scale
Also written as: RLAS — Rancho Los Amigos Scale
Eight-level scale describing cognitive and behavioral recovery patterns following traumatic brain injury.
Full Definition
The Rancho Los Amigos Scale (RLAS) is a standardized assessment tool that describes eight levels of cognitive and behavioral functioning during recovery from traumatic brain injury. The levels progress from Level I (no response) through Level VIII (purposeful and appropriate functioning), providing a framework for understanding patient status and guiding rehabilitation interventions. Each level describes characteristic behaviors, cognitive abilities, and appropriate treatment approaches. The RLAS is particularly valuable for communicating patient status among team members, educating families about recovery expectations, and determining appropriate rehabilitation settings and interventions based on cognitive capacity.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the level number (I-VIII) and briefly describe behaviors when documenting. Can abbreviate as RLAS.
In Context
- "The patient progressed from Rancho Level IV to Level VI during rehabilitation." — Cognitive assessment documentation
- "Treatment strategies were modified based on the patient's Rancho Los Amigos Level V functioning." — Interdisciplinary team meeting