User's Manual

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employability of the test subject may also be classified using the results of the MTM-based tests . The
classifications and the associated ranges for the tests are as follows:
Exceeding Above Competitive Above 140%
Above Competitive 101-140%
Competitive 80-100%
Entry Level 70-79%
Below Competitive 0-69%
Does MTM replace the Functional Capacities Evaluator?
The use of MTM standard scores is not intended to replace the functional capacities evaluator. It creates
a standardized yet flexible basis for the administration of positional tolerance tests and the performance
of time-motion activities, as well as providing a scoring basis that is objective and ensures the
reproducibility of the test results. However, the observations of a skilled evaluator are still the most
essential part of positional tolerance functional tests. In some situations the individual may demonstrate
the ability to assume and maintain a specific posture (e.g., kneeling, crouching, etc.), but the ability to
perform at a pace commensurate with industry time-motion standards may be limited. In functional
capacity evaluations such limitations must be addressed to ensure the reliability and validity of the test
process. Even if the test subject did not require a modification in the required posture, the skilled
evaluator will still note that while the position was assumed and maintained, the performance was limited
by other physiological and/or psychological factors. Those performance limitations may include, but are
not restricted to the following: pain resulting in decreased functionality; inability to perform at a
satisfactory level within the full functional range of the physical demand; limitations in other bodily
functional areas (e.g., slowed performance in the kneeling posture due to physical limitations in
handling/fingering); severely limited cognitive processing capabilities, etc. The keen eye of the skilled
evaluator is critical in recording observed deviations from the norm and providing an interpretation for
variations in performance.
How does the MTM standard apply to the BTE Functional Range of Motion System?
The Functional Range of Motion (FROM) System has sixteen protocols for the evaluation of positional
tolerances during the performance of functional activities. Eight of the positional tolerance protocols are
designed for measurements in the occasional work category, while the other eight are designed for
measurements in the frequent category.
The number of cycles necessary to complete the occasional work demand protocols is set to most closely
approximate a 5 minute timed tolerance test period. The number of cycles necessary to complete the
frequent work demand protocols is set to most closely approximate a 20 minute timed tolerance test
period.
Separate protocols are employed in each positional tolerance for the occasional and frequent work
demand categories as the common practice of extrapolating a limited time period performance to the
frequent work demand capacity has been shown to be flawed. Tests that only require an individual to
assume a position for a period not exceeding five minutes cannot accurately measure a worker’s capacity
for endurance.
A test subject that achieves a score in the competitive range (80-100) in the frequent demand protocol for
a specific positional tolerance has demonstrated the capacity for acceptable performance over the course
of an eight hour day. It will also hold true that the test subject has successfully demonstrated the capacity
for acceptable performance with regard to the occasional work demand. A test subject achieving a score
above 100 has demonstrated the capacity for acceptable performance at or exceeding an eight hour day
equivalency.
How are the MTM test results applied to the evaluation of the patient/worker’s abilities?