The first version of the Rankin scale appeared in the 80s. Its main purpose was to correctly assess the condition of the patient after a stroke. The Rankin scale also helped in choosing appropriate measures to restore the human body. This technique is now widely used by doctors involved in the rehabilitation of patients affected by cerebrovascular disorders.
Subsequently, a modified Rankin scale was released. It not only reflects the degree of functional impairment, but also allows you to objectively evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation measures. Also, with its help, you can identify the need for various additional devices for the disabled.
Rankin Scale Description
The method is based on the study of Nichs pictures, Rivermead analysis. Diagnostics in each clinic is individual. According to the Rankin scale, a specialist determines the further life activity and the level of disability of a person who has had a stroke. Based on the studies obtained, thrombolytic therapy is performed.
Using the scale, they diagnose:
- quality of speech activity;
- changes in the functioning of the musculoskeletal system;
- level of awareness;
- sensitivity;
- the ability to control body movements.
The scale determines the severity of the patient's condition. The health assessment table consists of six items. Each provides a detailed description of the condition of a patient with cerebrovascular accident.
High Rankin Health Score
The first two paragraphs describe a patient who was practically unaffected by the pathology, who retained the capacity of a patient who does not need rehabilitation:
- Zero. Legal capacity is not impaired. There are no problems arising after a stroke, there are no restrictions.
- First. Small changes in speech, writing, and speed of reading are observed. There are disorders in the emotional plane. A person leads a habitual independent lifestyle, but cannot perform actions associated with fine motor skills and increased attention.
Low Health Rating
The remaining paragraphs describe the condition of a patient who has partially or completely lost his legal capacity and needs outside help:
- Second. The patient partially loses legal capacity. Life is possible without outside support, if you do not need to perform complex actions. Restrictions on some activities: driving, dancing, running, physical labor.
- Third. Disability moderate. A person needs outside help, but he moves on his own, possibly using assistive devices. Psychological and moral support is needed.
- Fourth. Moderate level of loss of motor functions. The patient needs outside support. It does not take care of itself.
- Fifth. The most serious condition of the patient, the last degree of disability. Need round-the-clock supervision and care. A person is bedridden for life, uncontrolled urination occurs.
In the original version of the scale, the sixth level was present - the death of the patient. In a modified system, it is not.
The use of the method
The main component of medical care after treatment of a critical condition in a stroke is rehabilitation. During this period, it is necessary to get rid of neurological abnormalities as much as possible.
An important role in the recovery is played by the individual characteristics of the human body. The Rankin scale can significantly facilitate the work of a neurologist who makes up a coherent rehabilitation plan.
In addition, the obtained scale values are used by doctors involved in recovery procedures. This method is also used to assess the need for the rehabilitation process itself. You can also highlight the fact that the Rankin scale reveals the feasibility of using and a variety of means for moving the patient (stroller, walker, cane).