FIM Score
Pronunciation: fim skor
The numerical output of the Functional Independence Measure assessment, ranging from 18 (total dependence) to 126 (total independence) across 18 items of self-care and cognition.
Full Definition
The FIM score is the quantitative expression of a patient's functional status derived from the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) tool, the primary outcomes instrument used in inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs). Each of the 18 items is rated on a 7-point ordinal scale, with a total score range of 18–126. In PM&R and IRF documentation, FIM scores at admission and discharge are used to calculate FIM efficiency (gain per day) and are reported to the IRF-PAI (Patient Assessment Instrument) for Medicare reimbursement purposes. Editors must note that the FIM score is a trademarked instrument (UB Foundation Activities, Inc.) and should not be described as a generic 'functional outcome score.' Decimal values do not apply; scores are always whole integers.
Usage
Usage note: FIM is a trademarked tool; acknowledge trademark status in publications. Scores are whole integers only. Distinguish FIM score (total) from FIM efficiency (change per day).
In Context
- "The patient's admission FIM score of 42 improved to 89 at discharge, reflecting significant functional gains." — Inpatient rehabilitation facility outcomes report
- "The editor confirmed that FIM scores were reported as whole numbers and that the instrument name was trademarked in the acknowledgments." — Rehabilitation outcomes research manuscript