Benchmark comparison of outcomes for clients with upper-limb dysfunction after stroke using the Australian Therapy Outcome Measures for Occupational Therapy (AusTOMs-OT)

OBJECTIVES. The objective was to benchmark upper-limb outcomes for clients after stroke by confirming a local benchmark and comparing this benchmark with data from a prospective sample. METHOD. Expert occupational therapists were surveyed to confirm benchmark sample data (n = 20). Treatment sample data (n = 20) were collected at three subacute units. Outcomes were recorded using the Australian Therapy Outcome Measures for Occupational Therapy Upper-Limb Use scale. RESULTS. Results confirmed benchmark sample scores. Treatment sample participants were significantly younger than the benchmark sample; however, a two-way analysis of variance indicated that both samples improved to a similar degree. CONCLUSION. Therapists at the facilities where the treatment was provided can feel confident that they are meeting benchmark standards and may strive in the future to achieve better outcomes. Further benchmarking studies are required to encourage therapists to evaluate their performance and implement strategies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of practice.