Function in Sitting Test (FIST)

Interactive Assessment Form

Setup Requirements

  • ½ femur on surface; hips & knees flexed to 90°
  • Use step/stool for positioning & foot support if needed

Scoring Key (0-4 points per item)

4 = Independent: Completes task independently & successfully
3 = Verbal cues/increased time: Needs more time or cues but completes independently
2 = Upper extremity support: Must use UE for support or assistance
1 = Needs assistance: Requires physical assist (min, mod, or max)
0 = Dependent: Requires complete physical assist or unable to complete

For Items 1-3 (Nudge Tests)

Administer nudges in random order, once each direction (anterior, posterior, and lateral).
1 Anterior Nudge (superior sternum)
2 Posterior Nudge (between scapular spines)
3 Lateral Nudge (to dominant side at acromion)
4 Static Sitting (30 seconds)
5 Sitting, Shake 'No' (left and right)
6 Sitting, Eyes Closed (30 seconds)
7 Sitting, Lift Foot (dominant side, lift 1 inch twice)
8 Pick Up Object from Behind (at midline, hands breadth posterior)
9 Forward Reach (dominant arm, must complete full motion)
10 Lateral Reach (dominant arm, clear opposite ischial tuberosity)
11 Pick Up Object from Floor (from between feet)
12 Posterior Scooting (move backwards 2 inches)
13 Anterior Scooting (move forward 2 inches)
14 Lateral Scooting (move to dominant side 2 inches)

Total Score

0 / 56

Clinical Interpretation

Complete all 14 items to see the interpretation.

Reference: Gorman SL, Radtka S, Melnick ME, Abrams GM, Byl NN. Development and validation of the Function in Sitting Test in adults with acute stroke. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2010;34(3):150-160.