Don't assume that whatever the patient is wearing at the assessment visit is what he would “routinely wear.” Patients may temporarily change clothing choices in order to dress independently (for example, wear a housecoat). Ask the patient what clothing he routinely wore at home prior to the illness/injury/surgery. Observe the types of clothing in the patient's closet. This will identify how much the patient has modified clothing selection because of acute (and possibly temporary) functional limitations. This also will more accurately identify potential need for referral (for example, to occupational therapy).