Validation of the extended ICF core set for stroke from the patient perspective using focus groups

Purpose: The extended international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) core set for stroke is an application of the ICF of the World Health Organisation (WHO) with the purpose to represent the typical spectrum of functioning of persons with stroke. The objective of the study was to add evidence to the validation of the extended ICF core set for stroke from the perspective of patients using focus groups to explore the aspects of functioning and health important to persons with stroke. Method: The sampling of patients followed the maximum variation strategy. Sample size was determined by saturation. The focus groups were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. After qualitative data analysis, the resulting concepts were linked to ICF categories and compared to the categories included in the extended ICF core set for stroke. Results: Sixty patients participated in 15 focus groups. The content of 131 out of 166 ICF categories contained in the extended ICF core set for stroke was reported by the persons with stroke. The content of 31 additional categories that are not covered in the extended ICF core set for stroke was raised. Conclusions: The existing version of the extended ICF core set for stroke could be confirmed almost entirely from patient perspective.

Implications for Rehabilitation:

• The extended ICF Core Set for stroke can be used to create a functioning profile for persons after stroke to identify problems and resources considering a client-centred approach.

• This study shows which aspects of the environment of persons after stroke are relevant from the clients’ perspective and should be integrated in the rehabilitation process.

• This study provides a basis for the further development of the ICF, especially with regard to its update in relevant aspects from clients’ perspective after stroke.