Describe the term “functional outcomes” in rehabilitation.

The term "functional outcomes" in rehabilitation specifically refers to the measurable results of a patient’s ability to perform daily activities. This concept is crucial in assessing how well a patient can carry out tasks that are essential for their daily living, such as walking, dressing, bathing, or other activities that contribute to their overall independence and quality of life.

Evaluating functional outcomes allows healthcare providers to gauge the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions and track progress over time. It focuses not merely on clinical indicators or subjective assessments, but instead prioritizes observable and quantifiable improvements in the patient’s ability to engage in real-world activities. This is particularly important as rehabilitation aims to restore function and empower patients to achieve their personal goals, leading to enhanced satisfaction with their care and improved quality of life.

In contrast, subjective ratings of health and the number of therapy sessions completed do not provide the same insight into how the patient's capabilities are changing over time, nor do financial considerations directly reflect the functional improvements a patient may experience. Therefore, the emphasis on measurable ability to perform daily activities encapsulates the essence of functional outcomes in a rehabilitation context.