How is the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) administered?

The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) is administered primarily through parent interviews or observations of the child. This method allows for an in-depth understanding of the child's capabilities and challenges in diverse settings, particularly those that they may frequently encounter at home, in the community, and during daily activities. By involving parents or caregivers in the process, the assessment can capture a broader perspective on the child's functional skills, ranging from mobility and self-care to social function. This approach also enhances the reliability of the information being gathered, as parents are typically aware of their child's behaviors and abilities across various contexts.

Direct observation by a therapist would offer valuable insights but may not fully represent a child's abilities outside a clinical setting. Standardized tests can provide objective measures but do not typically encompass the dynamic nature of a child's everyday interactions as effectively as parent interviews. Teacher assessments might be beneficial in understanding academic performance or social interaction within a school setting, yet they may not cover all aspects of the child's development and functional abilities unrelated to the educational environment. Thus, the methodology of using parent interviews or direct observations of the child stands out as the most comprehensive and effective means of administering the PEDI.