Clinical prediction rules (CPR) are a mathematical, statistical guideline which incorporates multiple predictors such as; medical signs, symptoms, and other findings, into a combination that will assist in predicting a diagnosis or treatment outcome. It is an evidence-based tool which can help diagnose certain conditions as well as help to select the most appropriate method of treatment for that diagnosis. It assists the Therapist in making the wisest decision on the appropriate treatment.
TYPES
There are three types of CPR; Prognostic, diagnostic and prescriptive or interventional. Studies related to predictive factors dealing with the diagnosis are considered diagnostic CPR. Prognostic CPR deals with predicting outcomes of a specific treatment or procedure. CPR’s that deal with finding the most effective interventions or procedures is called prescriptive or interventional. In the field of rehabilitation, CPR’s are mainly prescriptive.
