FCE
Also written as: FCE — Functional Capacity Evaluation
Functional Capacity Evaluation; a systematic battery of performance-based tests that objectively measure an individual's physical abilities in relation to work demands.
Full Definition
An FCE is a structured assessment administered by a physical or occupational therapist to determine a patient's safe and reliable capacity for work-related physical tasks, including lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and sustained postures. Results are used to guide return-to-work decisions, vocational rehabilitation planning, and medicolegal proceedings such as disability determinations. In PM&R documentation, the FCE is distinct from an impairment rating: the FCE measures functional performance, whereas an impairment rating quantifies anatomical or physiological loss. Editors should confirm the acronym is expanded on first use and that the evaluating discipline and testing protocol are clearly stated. FCE results are commonly expressed using physical demand levels (sedentary, light, medium, heavy, very heavy) defined by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. Distinguish from 'impairment rating' in medicolegal and workers' compensation documents.
In Context
- "The FCE results indicated the patient could perform light-duty work with a maximum lift of 20 lbs." — Return-to-work rehabilitation report
- "An FCE was ordered to resolve discrepancy between subjective pain complaints and observed functional performance." — Workers' compensation case management note