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A widely used assessment tool to classify a person’s function from independence to total assistance in
7 levels.
What are the 7 levels?
7. Complete Independence
Another person is not required for the activity which is performed safely
without modification or outside assistance within a reasonable time.
6. Modified Independence
Activity requires one or more of the following: an assistive device, more
than reasonable time or safety (risk) considerations.
5. Supervision or set up
Someone required to help by observation or encouragement without contact.
4. Minimal Assistance
3. Moderate Assistance
Someone required to help by more than touching - subject makes 50% - 75%
of the effort.
Someone required to help - by touching - subject makes 75% or more of the effort.
2. Maximal Assistance
Complete dependence. Subject makes less than 50% but at least 25% of effort.
1. Total Assistance
Complete dependence. Subject makes less than 25% of effort.
Please note:
Staff in ALL areas must have immediate access to at least one mobile passive
hoist for use in the event of an emergency such as the retrieval of a patient who has fallen.
A passive hoist suitable for a very heavy person should also be accessible within the facility/
hospital and all staff should be aware of the system for accessing the hoist as required. (For
example: in the event of an unplanned admission of a very heavy patient into Accident and
Emergency).
FIM Scoring
Independent
Dependent
Complete
Dependence
