"Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test: Scoring Sheet & Results"

The Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) is a widely used clinical assessment tool designed to evaluate hand function and dexterity in individuals with upper extremity impairments. Developed by Dr. Jebsen and Dr. Taylor in 1965, this test measures performance in seven different functional tasks, providing a comprehensive overview of hand function. This article will delve into the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, its scoring sheet, and its significance in clinical settings.

Understanding the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test

The JTHFT consists of seven subtests, each simulating a common daily activity. These subtests include:

• Writing a sentence
• Picking up small objects (e.g., coins, beans)
• Simulating feeding (picking up and moving food to the mouth)
• Assembling objects (e.g., nuts and bolts)
• Turning cards (flipping 3" x 5" cards)
• Stacking checkers
• Lifting a heavy object (e.g., a gallon of water)

Each subtest is timed, and the time taken to complete each task is recorded. The total time taken for all subtests combined is the final score. This score provides a quantitative measure of hand function, enabling clinicians to track progress over time and compare results across different patients.

The Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test Scoring Sheet

The JTHFT scoring sheet is a simple yet effective tool for recording and interpreting test results. It typically includes the following columns:

The normal values listed in the scoring sheet are based on data from healthy individuals. The percentage of normal is calculated by dividing the patient's score by the normal value and multiplying by 100. This provides a standardized measure of hand function, with 100% indicating normal function and lower percentages indicating impaired function.

Interpreting Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test Results

JTHFT results are typically interpreted in the context of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other clinical assessments. A score of 70% or less is generally considered indicative of impaired hand function. However, it's essential to remember that the JTHFT is just one tool among many used to evaluate hand function, and results should be considered alongside other clinical findings.

The Role of the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test in Clinical Settings

The JTHFT plays a crucial role in clinical settings, serving several important purposes:

• Assessment: The JTHFT provides a quantitative measure of hand function, enabling clinicians to assess the severity of impairments and track progress over time.
• Diagnosis: By comparing a patient's JTHFT score to normal values, clinicians can gain insights into the nature and extent of hand function impairments, aiding in the diagnostic process.
• Treatment planning: JTHFT results can inform treatment planning by identifying specific functional tasks that a patient struggles with, enabling clinicians to target these areas in rehabilitation programs.
• Outcome measurement: The JTHFT is a reliable and valid tool for measuring outcomes in clinical trials and research studies, enabling comparisons across different patient populations and treatment approaches.

In conclusion, the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test is a valuable clinical tool that plays a vital role in assessing, diagnosing, and treating hand function impairments. Its user-friendly scoring sheet makes it an accessible and effective resource for clinicians, researchers, and other healthcare professionals.