WAC 388-449-0020 How does the department evaluate functional capacity for mental health impairments?

If you have a mental impairment, we evaluate ability to function in a work setting based on objective narrative clinical assessment from a medical professional as described in WAC 388-449-0010. We may also use other evidence as described in WAC 388-449-0010 . Functioning means your ability to perform typical tasks that would be required in a routine job setting and your ability to interact effectively while working.

1. We evaluate cognitive and social functioning by assessing your ability to:
   1. Understand, remember, and persist in tasks by following very short and simple instructions.
   2. Understand, remember, and persist in tasks by following detailed instructions.
   3. Perform activities within a schedule, maintain regular attendance, and be punctual within customary tolerances without special supervision.
   4. Learn new tasks.
   5. Perform routine tasks without special supervision.
   6. Adapt to changes in a routine work setting.
   7. Make simple work-related decisions.
   8. Be aware of normal hazards and take appropriate precautions.
   9. Ask simple questions or request assistance.
   10. Communicate and perform effectively in a work setting with public contact.
   11. Communicate and perform effectively in a work setting with limited public contact.
   12. Complete a normal workday and workweek without interruptions from psychologically based symptoms.
   13. Set realistic goals and plan independently.
   14. Maintain appropriate behavior in a work setting.