Article

OBJECTIVE: To create and illustrate the development of a method to parsimoniously
and hierarchically assess upper extremity function in persons after stroke.
DESIGN: Data were analyzed using Rasch analysis. SETTING: Re-analysis of data
from 8 studies involving persons after stroke. SUBJECTS: Over 4000 patients with
stroke who participated in various studies in Montreal and elsewhere in Canada.
METHODS: Data comprised 17 tests or indices of upper extremity function and
health-related quality of life, for a total of 99 items related to upper
extremity function. Tests and indices included, among others, the Box and Block
Test, the Nine-Hole Peg Test and the Stroke Impact Scale. Data were collected at
various times post-stroke from 3 days to 1 year. RESULTS: Once the data fit the
model, a bank of items measuring upper extremity function with persons and items
organized hierarchically by difficulty and ability in log units was produced.
CONCLUSION: This bank forms the basis for eventual computer adaptive testing. The
calibration of the items should be tested further psychometrically, as should the
interpretation of the metric arising from using the item calibration to measure
the upper extremity of individuals.

Langue : ANGLAIS