Which statement best describes SMART criteria for patient-centered goals?

• A. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound
• B. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timed
• C. Simple, Measurable, Accountable, Realistic, Timed
• D. Systematic, Measurable, Achievable, Rational, Timed

Answer: (A)

Using SMART goals in physical therapy helps ensure goals are clear, trackable, feasible, meaningful to the patient, and time-limited. Specific means the goal states precisely what will be achieved and under what conditions, leaving no ambiguity about what success looks like. Measurable provides a way to quantify progress, such as a distance, a number of repetitions, or an independence level, so you can demonstrate improvement over time. Achievable keeps the goal within the patient’s current abilities and resources, making it realistic to reach with the planned interventions. Relevant ensures the goal matters to the patient and aligns with their functional priorities and daily life. Time-bound sets a deadline, which motivates progress and allows periodic reassessment.

The best choice reflects these elements exactly: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. Other options replace or omit key terms—Simple narrows focus too much, Accountable or Rational don’t capture feasibility or value, and Timed is a less standard way to express a deadline.

Example: by four weeks, the patient will climb stairs with a handrail independently for two consecutive days, which is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant to functional mobility, and time-bound.