What does ARAT mean in PHYSIOLOGY
Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) is a clinical tool used for evaluating upper limb abilities in the medical industry. This multi-dimensional assessment is widely used to monitor post-stroke rehabilitation, or to assess the effectiveness of different interventions, including motor therapies and devices. The test was first introduced in 1989 by Bertina L. Evans, and since then it has become an essential part of stroke recovery assessment processes. ARAT is suitable for both adult and pediatric patients with neurological impairment, and it can be incorporated into different types of therapy programs.
ARAT meaning in Physiology in Medical
ARAT mostly used in an acronym Physiology in Category Medical that means Action Research Arm Test
Shorthand: ARAT,
Full Form: Action Research Arm Test
For more information of "Action Research Arm Test", see the section below.
» Medical » Physiology
What Is ARAT?
The Action Research Arm Test is an 18-item performance measure which focuses on strength, dexterity, visual-motor control and coordination of movement in the upper body. It evaluates various upper limb functions such as pinch grip strength, grasp strength, arm reaching/placing ability, object manipulation skills, speed of movement and coordination. The evaluation is conducted in a standardized environment by a qualified therapist or healthcare professional who records patient responses using a 0–3 point scale. This score is then combined with other assessments such as hand function tests or computerized assessments to form an overall score that provides healthcare providers with greater insight into progress made during therapy sessions.
Why Is ARAT Used?
ARAT is primarily used to measure functional improvements following stroke recovery or other interventions performed by medical professionals during physical therapy treatment sessions. It also helps physicians determine the efficacy of specific treatments over time depending on changes measured against pre-intervention baselines. Additionally, it can serve as an excellent tool for assessing any deterioration in a patient’s condition due to neurological diseases or aging-related issues such as impaired gait and balance stability when performing everyday activities like walking and climbing stairs.
Essential Questions and Answers on Action Research Arm Test in "MEDICAL»PHYSIOLOGY"
What is the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT)?
The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) is a standardized measure of upper extremity function, used to evaluate improve performance and disabilities related to stroke. Developed by Edward Taub in 1980, the ARAT assesses functional abilities through an 18-item test that covers gross motor movements as well as functional tasks such as pinch strength and object manipulation.
What are the components of ARAT?
The Action Research Arm Test consists of 18 items which measure different aspects of upper extremity functioning, including gross motor movement, grasping objects, grasp releases and pressures. Each item is scored out of a total of 4 points indicating task completion.
How reliable is the ARAT?
The Action Research Arm Test is considered a reliable measure for upper extremity functioning with documented internal consistency reliability across 2 administrations within 24 hours ranging from 0.72 - 0.90 for most items. Furthermore, it has exhibited moderate inter-administrator reliability over two time periods ranging from 0.60 - 0.99.
What age groups does the ARAT apply to?
The Action Research Arm Test was designed to be administered on patients between the ages of 18 and 65 years old however has also been applied to those outside this range successfully as well.
How long does it usually take to administer the ARAT?
Administering the Action Research Arm Test typically takes anywhere between 20 – 30 minutes depending on patient ability level and fatigue.
Is there any special training required to administer the ARAT?
Yes, some basic understanding about neurologic functioning and assessment techniques is always useful when assessing any patient using a standard assessment tool like ARAT. However, specific certification or courses are not required in order to successfully complete testing with this tool.
How often should the ARAT be administered?
This will depend on individual goals and patient response; however it is generally recommended that patients participate in regular sessions at least once per week in order for their progress to be accurately tracked.
What are some common uses for the results from an ARAT assessment?
An Action Research Arm Test can provide clinicians with a clear picture regarding an individual’s arm functions when compared against normative values found throughout literature. Results from this test can aid in establishing therapeutic goals, inform treatment plans and guide therapies accordingly in terms of efficacy and development over time.
Are there any resources available if I have further questions about administering or interpreting results from an ARAT assessment?
Yes! There are several publications available online such as articles specifically related to administering or interpreting results from an ARAT assessment, as well as other resource materials such as books and videos that can aid in understanding its implementation more thoroughly.
Final Words:
In summary, the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) is a practical tool which allows medical professionals to accurately assess upper limb functions for patients undergoing rehabilitation or undergoing treatments for neurological impairments using a simple 0–3 point rating system. It provides invaluable insight into progress made during physical therapy sessions or interventions compared against pre-intervention baseline measurements making it an essential part of many medical procedures today.