FIM FIM Levels of Assistance

Question 1

A patient completes all steps of upper extremity dressing independently, on time, and without any adaptive equipment. Which FIM level should be assigned?

Accepted Answer

Complete Independence (7)

Answer

FIM Level 7 (Complete Independence) is assigned when the patient performs the task safely, in a reasonable time, and without assistive devices or another person.

Question 2

At FIM Level 4 (Minimal Assist), what minimum percentage of the task must the patient perform?

Accepted Answer

75%

Answer

Minimal Assist (Level 4) means the patient performs 75% or more of the task; the helper contributes less than 25% of the effort.

Question 3

A clinician provides only verbal cues and standby guarding during a patient's shower but makes no physical contact. Which FIM level applies?

Accepted Answer

Supervision (5)

Answer

Level 5 (Supervision/Setup) is used when a helper provides cueing, coaxing, or standby assistance without making physical contact.

Question 4

Which FIM level indicates that the helper must perform 75% or more of the task because the patient contributes less than 25%?

Accepted Answer

Total Assist (1)

Answer

Total Assist (Level 1) is assigned when the patient contributes less than 25% of the task effort, requiring the helper to do 75% or more.

Question 5

A patient uses a long-handled sponge to bathe independently due to limited trunk flexibility but requires no assistance from another person. Which FIM level is correct?

Accepted Answer

Modified Independence (6)

Answer

Modified Independence (Level 6) applies when a patient performs the task alone but requires an assistive device, takes extra time, or has safety concerns.

FIM - Functional Independence Measure Practice Test

FIM - Functional Independence Measure Practice Test

FIM FIM Levels of Assistance