Goal Attainment

Question 1

What is goal attainment scaling?

Answer 1

A method for setting goals
Scoring how they are achieved
Outcome measurement instrument
Used in clinical and research settings

Question 2

What diagnoses can use goal attainment scaling?

Answer 2

Parkinson’s
Pain management
Brain injury
Cerebral palsy
Neuro rehab
Sports and MSK

Question 3

How do you assess using goal attainment scaling?

Answer 3

Patient reported Outcomes
Can weight different goals
Recommended 3-6 goals

Question 4

What are advantages of goal attainment scaling?

Answer 4

Encourages collaboration between team members
Promotes patient involvement
Can construct their own measures

Question 5

What are criticisms of goal attainment scaling?

Answer 5

1. Poorly written goals and scales
2. Potential for bias
3. Lack inter rater reliability
4. Time consuming

Question 6

What are the 6 steps in goal attainment scaling?

Answer 6

1. Identify goals (interview patient, decide on date, SMART)
2. Weight goals (importance x difficulty)
3. Define expected outcome (-2 to +2)
4. Score baseline and interval (baseline is usually -1)
5. Follow up time selection
6. Goal attainment scaling

Question 7

What evidence is there for use of goal attainment scaling in geriatrics?

Answer 7

Rockwood in 1992 used it on geriatric assessment unit and restorative care service
Found to be feasible method of goal setting and outcome evaluation
Promising reliability and validity

• Responsive measure in frail elderly patients
• Resulted in shorter LOS, more focused care, improved team functioning
• Feasible and responsive measure in LTC
• Also some data in day hospitals

Question 8

What are SMART goals?

Answer 8

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Time related