Functional Assessment
A Functional Assessment is a standardized way to evaluate how well older adults can perform their daily activities and live independently. It's like a detailed checklist that healthcare workers use to understand what tasks a person can do on their own, what they need help with, and what risks they might face. This includes checking things like their ability to walk, dress themselves, prepare meals, or manage medications. Think of it as a comprehensive evaluation that helps determine what kind of care or support someone might need to stay safe and maintain their quality of life.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 200 Functional Assessments for newly admitted nursing home residents
Trained staff members in performing Functional Assessment techniques and documentation
Developed care plans based on Functional Assessment results for home health patients
Implemented new Activities of Daily Living Assessment protocols for the geriatric unit
Performed comprehensive Functional Status Evaluations for elderly clients
Typical job title: "Geriatric Care Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Geriatric Care Managers
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Networking Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a facility-wide functional assessment program?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized procedures, training staff, ensuring consistent documentation, quality monitoring, and how to use assessment data to improve care facility-wide.
Q: Describe how you would handle complex cases where functional assessments indicate conflicting needs?
Expected Answer: Should explain balancing safety with independence, involving family members, coordinating with different healthcare providers, and creating comprehensive care plans.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools do you use for functional assessments and why?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common assessment tools, explain when to use different types of assessments, and how to interpret results to create care plans.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in functional assessments?
Expected Answer: Should discuss observation techniques, importance of consistent documentation, following up with family members, and verifying information from multiple sources.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a functional assessment?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list main areas assessed: mobility, personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and basic daily activities.
Q: How do you document a functional assessment?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic documentation requirements, importance of being detailed and objective, and following facility protocols for recording information.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic assessment techniques
- Documentation skills
- Understanding of daily living activities
- Basic care plan development
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex assessment management
- Care plan optimization
- Family communication
- Risk assessment
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development
- Staff training
- Quality improvement
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to demonstrate basic understanding of daily living activities
- Poor documentation skills
- Lack of experience with elderly population
- No knowledge of safety protocols
- Poor communication skills with families and healthcare team members
Related Terms
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