title: Predictive validity of a functional capacity evaluation: the physical work performance evaluation.
abstract: The predictive validity of a Functional Capacity Evaluation, the Physical Work Performance Evaluation (PWPE), was examined in 30 workers compensation patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction who participated in an industrial rehabilitation program. Return-to-work recommendations were made by comparing the discharge PWPE to the physical requirements of the job. Kappa coefficients were used to compare PWPE recommendations to actual work at discharge, 3 months and 6 months. Substantial agreement was found between PWPE recommendations at all three follow-up points. This study provides preliminary evidence in support of the predictive validity of the PWPE for making return-to-work recommendations at the conclusion of an industrial rehabilitation program.
authors.affiliation: ErgoScience, Inc., Birmingham, AL 35222, USA. deborahlechner@ergoscience.com
authors.forename: Deborah E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Lechner
authors.forename: Jill J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Page
authors.forename: Grover
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Sheffield
mesh_terms: D000062:Accidents, Occupational; D000328:Adult; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004651:Employment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires