FIM
Also written as: FIM — Functional Independence Measure
Acronym for Functional Independence Measure, an 18-item standardized scale rating a rehabilitation patient's degree of functional independence.
Full Definition
FIM stands for Functional Independence Measure and is the dominant outcome measure in inpatient rehabilitation documentation across North America and many other regions. It scores patients on 18 functional tasks across motor and cognitive subscales, each rated 1–7. Editors frequently encounter FIM scores in rehabilitation reports, insurance pre-authorization documents, and academic manuscripts. Care should be taken not to abbreviate as 'Fim' or 'fim'; the all-caps form is standard. The acronym should be expanded at first mention in any document.
Usage
Usage note: Always render in full capitals. Expand on first use.
In Context
- "The FIM was administered at admission, mid-program, and discharge to track functional gains." — Rehabilitation program evaluation report
- "Do not render this acronym in mixed case; the correct editorial form is always FIM." — Style guide note