AOTA Occupational Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Programming Practice Test

The main purpose of a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is to assess an individual’s physical capabilities in relation to specific job demands. This evaluation provides crucial information about a person's ability to perform work-related tasks after an injury or during the rehabilitation process. The findings from an FCE help employers understand how an employee can safely return to work, what accommodations might be necessary, and whether any limitations need to be considered.

In the context of occupational rehabilitation, understanding the physical abilities of an employee allows for a more tailored return-to-work plan, ensuring that the tasks assigned align with the individual’s capacity. This can help in preventing re-injury and promoting a successful reintegration into the workforce. Furthermore, FCEs can provide valuable data for making decisions about job placements, creating return-to-work strategies, and guiding rehabilitation efforts.

The other options do not align with the purpose of an FCE. Determining an employee's salary is unrelated to functional capacity. Establishing workplace rules pertains to policy and management rather than individual assessment of physical abilities. Evaluating employee satisfaction is focused on psychosocial aspects and workplace environment, rather than assessing physical capabilities.