Application of Functional Independence Measure (FIM) in the practice of self care in a geriatric ward

Abstract

Objective: To describe the profile of older people admitted to a hospital geriatric unit in accordance with its function and its dependence on self care and assess their progress on these aspects during the hospitalization. Methods: The socio-demographic data and clinical trials were collected through the history of nursing. The instrument used to perform the assessment of functionality was the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). The sample was composed of 31 elderly people of age superior or equal than 60 years, who were assessed weekly, as to its functionality for self care, from their admission until the time of his discharge. Results: In the assessment of self care MIF total scores there was a reduction between the 1st (16.57) and 3rd (14.29) weeks, but without statistical significance (p = 0239). Analyzing the items of MIF separately (food, hygiene, bathing, using the toilet and put it above and below the belt) there was a decrease in the scores of MIF with statistical significance in most of the items during the period of hospitalization. Conclusion: There was a tendency to decrease the functionality of the elderly with respect to self-care during the hospitalization. So the nursing care must create conditions that allow the elderly to maintain and implement the self care, so that they become independent and live the best possible way with their limitations, facilitating thus their reintroduction into society and family.