What is a multi-dimensional outcome measure?

What is a multi-dimensional outcome measure?

• A. A measure focusing exclusively on psychological well-being.
• B. A measure that assesses multiple functional domains such as ADLs and mobility.
• C. A test evaluating only physical performance under stress.
• D. A standardized score from a population sample.

Answer: (B)

A multi-dimensional outcome measure is characterized by its ability to assess various aspects of a person's health and functioning across different domains. Option B accurately reflects this definition, highlighting that such a measure evaluates multiple functional domains, including activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobility. This comprehensive approach allows healthcare professionals to gain insights into a patient’s overall health status and the interplay of various factors affecting their quality of life. In contrast, the other options focus on narrower perspectives. One option zeroes in solely on psychological well-being, neglecting the physical or social dimensions. Another option describes a test that exclusively evaluates physical performance under stress, which does not encompass the multi-faceted nature of overall health. Lastly, a standardized score derived from a population sample does not inherently convey multi-dimensionality; it merely reflects comparative performance rather than assessing diverse functional elements. Thus, the emphasis on multiple functional domains in option B makes it the correct choice for defining a multi-dimensional outcome measure.

A multi-dimensional outcome measure is characterized by its ability to assess various aspects of a person's health and functioning across different domains. Option B accurately reflects this definition, highlighting that such a measure evaluates multiple functional domains, including activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobility. This comprehensive approach allows healthcare professionals to gain insights into a patient’s overall health status and the interplay of various factors affecting their quality of life.

In contrast, the other options focus on narrower perspectives. One option zeroes in solely on psychological well-being, neglecting the physical or social dimensions. Another option describes a test that exclusively evaluates physical performance under stress, which does not encompass the multi-faceted nature of overall health. Lastly, a standardized score derived from a population sample does not inherently convey multi-dimensionality; it merely reflects comparative performance rather than assessing diverse functional elements. Thus, the emphasis on multiple functional domains in option B makes it the correct choice for defining a multi-dimensional outcome measure.