The outcomes for upper limb mobility and personal management during the three months after onset of stroke in patients attending occupational therapy

Abstract

This research project described the outcomes for upper limb motor function (ULMF) and personal management (PM) for patients attending occupational therapy at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital post-stroke. A quantitative, descriptive correlation design was used. A purposive sample of adult patients who met the inclusion criteria was selected. The researcher completed initial assessments of ULMF using the Fugl–Meyer assessment and the South African Data for Functional Measurements: Beta Scale to assess independence in PM. Research participants received rehabilitation as usual. The same measurements were administered on discharge and during out-patient follow up appointments at one, two and three months. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results indicated that recovery of ULMF was influenced by the site of lesion. Gender and age did not influence recovery of ULMF. Severe motor disability, which resulted in poor recovery of UL and LL, yielded poor independence in PM.