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Psychometric Testing (psychometric + testing)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Medical Sciences97%
Distribution within Medical Sciences
Nursing General59%
Psychiatry11%
7 Other Subdomains30%

Selected Abstracts

A Relationship Power Scale for Female Adolescents: Preliminary Development and Psychometric Testing

PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING, Issue 1 2007
Ruey-Hsia Wang
ABSTRACT Objectives: To develop and test psychometric characteristics of the Relationship Power Scale (RPS), which can be used to explore the relationship power of female adolescents in heterosexual relationships. Methods: Cross-sectional design. Female adolescents in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, who had a steady relationship with a boyfriend at the time of the study were recruited as study subjects (n=414) to test validity and reliability of the RPS. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that a one-factor model with correlated uniqueness among the positively worded items best fits the data. There were significantly different scores in 3 different response groups on 2 items regarding who (participants, both themselves and their boyfriends equally, or their boyfriends) had more power in the relationship, and who was more emotionally involved in the relationship for all subjects. For subjects having sex with their steady boyfriends, RPS scores significantly differ among the 3 different response groups on 2 items regarding who had more say about having sex, and who had more say about using condoms. Cronbach's , for the RPS was .69. Test-retest reliability coefficients for the RPS were .83. Conclusions: The RPS exhibited acceptable reliability and validity. Further research is recommended to use the RPS in sex-related behavior research among heterosexual female adolescents. [source]

Development and responsiveness of a scale to measure clinicians' attitudes to people with mental illness (medical student version)

ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2010
A. Kassam
Kassam A, Glozier N, Leese M, Henderson C, Thornicroft G. Development and responsiveness of a scale to measure clinicians' attitudes to people with mental illness (medical student version). Objective:, We report the rationale, reliability, validity and responsiveness studies of the Mental Illness: Clinicians' Attitudes (MICA) Scale, a 16-item scale designed to measure attitudes of health care professionals towards people with mental illness. Method:, Items were generated through focus groups with service users, carers, medical students and trainee psychiatrists. Psychometric testing was completed in a number of student samples. The responsiveness of the scale was tested after a 1.5 h mental illness stigma related intervention with medical students. Results:, The MICA scale showed good internal consistency, , = 0.79. The test,retest reliability (concordance) was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.68,0.91). The standardised response mean for the scale was 0.4 (95% CI 0.02,0.8) after a mental illness related stigma intervention. Conclusion:, The MICA scale is a responsive, reliable and valid tool, which can be used in medical education and mental health promotion settings and studies. [source]

Psychometric testing of the Swedish version of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Multilevel Assessment Instrument

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING PRACTICE, Issue 3 2007
Margareta Minhage OT
We examined whether the Swedish adaptation of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Multilevel Assessment Instrument (PGCMAI) developed by Lawton meets criteria for reliability and validity in an elderly Swedish population with locomotor disability. Data were collected, using the mid-length version of the instrument, from 199 elderly people with locomotor disability in two Swedish counties. Reliability was determined by Cronbach's alpha and construct validity was tested by means of exploratory factor analysis. Comparison was made with the Standardized Practical Equipment (SPE) test. Factor analysis identified eight factors, which were comparable to the original eight domains. There was a logical correlation between the PGCMAI and the SPE test. Further psychometric testing is recommended on other groups of elderly people. [source]

Psychometric testing of the Leadership and Management Inventory: a tool to measure the skills and abilities of first-line nurse managers

JOURNAL OF NURSING MANAGEMENT, Issue 7 2008
BERNICE SKYTT MSc
Aim, To estimate the validity and reliability of the Leadership and Management Inventory, a tool to measure the skills and abilities of first-line nurse managers. Background, The decision to develop an inventory reflects the need for an instrument that can measure the various skills and abilities first-line nurse managers should possess. Method, Factor analysis was conducted and internal consistency initially estimated on data from 149 registered nurses; a second sample of 197 health care personnel was used to test these results. Results, Principal component analysis of the first sample resulted in a preferred three-factor solution that explained 65.8% of the variance; Cronbach's alpha coefficient varied between 0.90 and 0.95. Analysis of the second sample also resulted in a three-factor solution that explained 64.2% of the variance; Cronbach's alpha coefficient varied from 0.88 to 0.96. For both samples, the factors were labelled ,interpersonal skills and group management', ,achievement orientation' and ,overall organizational view and political savvy'. Conclusion, Results indicate that estimates of validity and reliability for the Leadership and Management Inventory can be considered acceptable. Implications for nursing management, The Leadership and Management Inventory can be used when first-line nurse managers' leadership and management skills and abilities are to be measured. [source]

Cognitive dysfunction 1,2 years after non-cardiac surgery in the elderly

ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 10 2000
H. Abildstrom
Background: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a well-recognised complication of cardiac surgery, but evidence of POCD after general surgery has been lacking. We recently showed that POCD was present in 9.9% of elderly patients 3 months after major non-cardiac surgery. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether POCD persists for 1,2 years after operation. Methods: A total of 336 elderly patients (median age 69 years, range 60,86) was studied after major surgery under general anesthesia. Psychometric testing was performed before surgery and at a median of 7, 98 and 532 days postoperatively using a neuropsychological test battery with 7 subtests. A control group of 47 non-hospitalised volunteers of similar age were tested with the test battery at the same intervals. Results: 1,2 years after surgery, 35 out of 336 patients (10.4%, CI: 7.2,13.7%) had cognitive dysfunction. Three patients had POCD at all three postoperative test sessions (0.9%). From our definition of POCD, there is only a 1:64 000 likelihood that a single subject would have POCD at all three test points by chance. Logistic regression analysis identified age, early POCD, and infection within the first three postoperative months as significant risk factors for long-term cognitive dysfunction. Five of 47 normal controls fulfilled the criteria for cognitive dysfunction 1,2 years after initial testing (10.6%, CI: 1.8,19.4%), i.e. a similar incidence of age-related cognitive impairment as among patients. Conclusion: POCD is a reversible condition in the majority of cases but may persist in approximately 1% of patients. [source]

Psychometric testing of the Perception of Pregnancy Risk Questionnaire,

RESEARCH IN NURSING & HEALTH, Issue 5 2009
Maureen I. Heaman
Abstract Pregnant women's perception of risk may influence their health behaviors during pregnancy; however, no validated instrument exists to measure those perceptions. The purpose of this study was to refine a new instrument, the Perception of Pregnancy Risk Questionnaire (PPRQ), and conduct psychometric assessment of the final 9-item version. Reliability and validity were assessed using a sample of 199 women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in a two-factor solution. Evidence of construct validity was demonstrated using the known-groups technique and through convergent validity. Ratings of pregnancy risk correlated with state anxiety level, providing evidence of concurrent validity. The PPRQ had high internal consistency reliability and excellent test,retest reliability. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:493,503, 2009 [source]

Psychometric testing of the NEECHAM confusion scale among patients with hip fracture

RESEARCH IN NURSING & HEALTH, Issue 3 2002
Inger S. Johansson
Abstract The main aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of a Swedish translation of the NEECHAM Confusion Scale among 73 patients having surgery for hip fractures. Cronbach's alpha before and 7 days after surgery were .73 and .82, respectively. Principal-component analyses yielded three factors explaining 69% of the variance of the variables preoperatively and 73.6% of the variance 7 days postoperatively. Four months after discharge vital function, factor II in the NEECHAM scale, significantly predicted the total score on the Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index. Items reflecting information processing, behavior, and urinary continence, factor I, also predicted functional capacity, using the Standardized Practical Equipment test, a tool measuring instrumental daily activity. The scale seems to be a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating acute confusional state among patients with hip fracture. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 25:203,211, 2002 [source]

Developing a user-generated measure of continuity of care: brief report

ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2009
D. Rose
Objective:, This paper describes a measure of continuity of care, establishes its reliability and tests it in a field trial sample for evidence of its validity. In contrast to others, this measure has been generated from the perspectives of service users. As continuity of care is a concern particularly for those with severe mental illness, we have confined our work to this population group. Method:, Service users in focus groups and expert panels generated the measure. The researchers were themselves service users. Test,retest reliability was assessed with an independent sample. The measure was administered to a final independent field trial sample to determine their experiences of continuity of care and for further psychometric testing. Results:, The measure generated by service users has satisfactory psychometric properties. Service users in the field trial sample were more satisfied when continuity, as assessed by this measure, was in place. Conclusion:, It is possible and valid to construct outcome measures in mental health entirely from the user perspective. This has not been done before. [source]

Measurement of post-operative cognitive dysfunction after cardiac surgery: a systematic review

ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 6 2010
J. L. RUDOLPH
Post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a decline in cognitive function from pre-operative levels, which has been frequently described after cardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the variability in the measurement and definitions for POCD using the framework of a 1995 Consensus Statement on measurement of POCD. Electronic medical literature databases were searched for the intersection of the search terms ,thoracic surgery' and ,cognition, dementia, and neuropsychological test.' Abstracts were reviewed independently by two reviewers. English articles with >50 participants published since 1995 that performed pre-operative and post-operative psychometric testing in patients undergoing cardiac surgery were reviewed. Data relevant to the measurement and definition of POCD were abstracted and compared with the recommendations of the Consensus Statement. Sixty-two studies of POCD in patients undergoing cardiac surgery were identified. Of these studies, the recommended neuropsychological tests were carried out in less than half of the studies. The cognitive domains measured most frequently were attention (n=56; 93%) and memory (n=57; 95%); motor skills were measured less frequently (n=36; 60%). Additionally, less than half of the studies examined anxiety and depression, performed neurological exam, or accounted for learning. Four definitions of POCD emerged: per cent decline (n=15), standard deviation decline (n=14), factor analysis (n=13), and analysis of performance on individual tests (n=12). There is marked variability in the measurement and definition of POCD. This heterogeneity may impede progress by reducing the ability to compare studies on the causes and treatment of POCD. [source]

Psychometric evaluation of the Spanish version of CONNECT: a measure of continuity of care in mental health services

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF METHODS IN PSYCHIATRIC RESEARCH, Issue 1 2007
L.M. Chavez
Abstract This article provides the results of the psychometric testing of the Spanish version of CONNECT(-S), a measure of continuity of care in mental health services. CONNECT-S is a multidimensional measure designed for use with seriously mentally ill respondents. Consisting of 12 scales and one single-item indicator, it addresses qualities of interaction in current relationships between mental health service providers and consumers in five conceptual domains: (1) practitioner knowledge of their clients, (2) creating flexibility, (3) practitioner availability, (4) practitioner co-ordination, and (5) smoothing transitions. One-hundred-and-fifty participants took part in the study. Participants were recruited from mental health outpatient clinics in both the Puerto Rican (n = 109) and the San Antonio (n = 41) samples. Internal consistency for scales in a combined site estimate ranged from 0.68 to 0.96. Test-retest reliability ranged from fair to substantial in all but one scale. Concurrent validity hypotheses based on a priori predictions were mostly supported. The Spanish translation and adaptation of CONNECT-S provided sound psychometric results across both sites. CONNECT-S addresses the gap in measurement of continuity of care for the two largest US Latino subgroups, Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans; and provides an encouraging starting point for a measure that is both relevant and culturally sensitive. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Psychometric testing of the Swedish version of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Multilevel Assessment Instrument

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING PRACTICE, Issue 3 2007
Margareta Minhage OT
We examined whether the Swedish adaptation of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Multilevel Assessment Instrument (PGCMAI) developed by Lawton meets criteria for reliability and validity in an elderly Swedish population with locomotor disability. Data were collected, using the mid-length version of the instrument, from 199 elderly people with locomotor disability in two Swedish counties. Reliability was determined by Cronbach's alpha and construct validity was tested by means of exploratory factor analysis. Comparison was made with the Standardized Practical Equipment (SPE) test. Factor analysis identified eight factors, which were comparable to the original eight domains. There was a logical correlation between the PGCMAI and the SPE test. Further psychometric testing is recommended on other groups of elderly people. [source]

Sensitivity, Specificity, and Usefulness of the Dutch Fatigue Scale

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING TERMINOLOGIES AND CLASSIFICATION, Issue 3 2001
Lucas J. Tiesinga PhD
Purpose. To test the sensitivity, specificity, and usefulness of the Dutch Fatigue Scale (DUFS), which is based on NANDAs defining characteristics of fatigue. Methods. A cross-sectional design was used among domiciliary patients (N = 213) with chronic heart failure (n = 138) and with breastfeeding postpartum women (n = 75). Findings. Calculations of the sensitivity and specificity of the DUFS, comparisons of the average DUFS sumscores between both nonfatigued and fatigued subjects, as well as between patients with chronic heart failure and postpartum women, and correlation coefficients performed with sociodemographic factors (age, gender, education) demonstrate acceptable psychometric properties. Conclusions. The DUFS is a reliable and valid measurement tool for the assessment of fatigue. Practice Implications. Accurate recognition of the existence and extent of fatigue must precede interventions. Easy to use, reliable tools for the bedside nurse are invaluable assets to practice. Search Terms: Fatigue, measurement of fatigue, psychometric testing [source]

Development and psychometric testing of a new geriatric spiritual well-being scale

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OLDER PEOPLE NURSING, Issue 3 2008
Karen S. Dunn PhD
Aims and objectives., Assess the psychometric properties of a new geriatric spiritual well-being scale (GSWS), specifically designed for older adults. Background., Religiosity and spiritual wellness must be measured as two distinct concepts to prevent confounding them as synonymous among atheist and agnostic population. Design., A test,retest survey design was used to estimate the psychometric properties. Methods., A convenience sample of 138 community-dwelling older adults was drawn from the inner city of Detroit. Data were collected using telephone survey interviews. Data analyses included descriptive statistics, structural equation modelling, reliability analyses, and point-biserial correlations. Results., The factorial validity of the proposed model was not supported by the data. Fit indices were ,2 = 185.98, d.f. = 98, P < 0.00, goodness-of-fit index of 0.85, comparative fit index of 0.87 and root mean error of approximation of 0.08, indicating a mediocre fit. Reliability statistics for the subscales ranged from being poor (0.36) to good (0.84) with an acceptable overall scale alpha of 0.76. Participants' performance stability and criterion-related validity were also supported. Conclusions., The GSWS is an age-specific assessment tool that was developed specifically to address a population's cultural diversity. Future research endeavors will be to test the psychometric properties of this scale in culturally diverse older adult populations for further instrument development. Relevance to clinical practice., Nurses need to recognize that agnostics/atheists have spiritual needs that do not include religious beliefs or practices. Thus, assessing patients' religious beliefs and practices prior to assessing spiritual well-being is essential to prevent bias. [source]

Developing a questionnaire to measure nurses' attitudes towards hospitalized older people

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OLDER PEOPLE NURSING, Issue 2 2007
Dip N. (C.T) Dip., Ella McLafferty PhD
A number of studies have used generic measures to evaluate nurses' attitudes toward hospitalized older people. Those measures do not consider the context in which nurses meet older people and the influence that this may have on nurses' attitudes. The aims and objectives of the study were to develop a questionnaire from focus group data to evaluate nurses' attitudes towards hospitalized older people. To evaluate the psychometric properties of the questionnaire the design included a qualitative and quantitative phase. The method used for the qualitative phase was focus group interviews with the intention of identifying the phenomena that may indicate nurses' attitudes towards older people. The quantitative phase included the development and psychometric testing of an attitudinal questionnaire. Samples for the qualitative phase included Registered Nurses from the care of older people setting; Registered Nurses from the acute setting; nursing students and nurse teachers. The sample for the quantitative phase included nursing students (numbering 355). Ten themes were identified through thematic analysis. Eighty items were extrapolated from the qualitative analysis and used to formulate a questionnaire which was then distributed to the nursing students. On analysis, the reliability was 0.78. Further analysis using Principal Components Analysis (P.C.A.) with orthogonal rotation indicated that 45 items loaded on to eight factors. Results of the quantitative analysis indicated that there was a strong correlation between the thematic analysis and the P.C.A. The results would suggest that there may be important and relevant domains that are worthy of further study into nurses' attitudes towards older people. If the domains identified are useful for identifying negative attitudes towards older people, then strategies can be implemented to try and reduce negative attitudes in clinical practice. [source]

Cigarette dependence questionnaire: development and psychometric testing with male smokers

JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 10 2010
Chih-Ling Huang
huang c.-l., lin h.-h. & wang h.-h. (2010) Cigarette dependence questionnaire: development and psychometric testing with male smokers. Journal of Advanced Nursing,66(10), 2341,2349. Abstract Aim., This paper is a report of a study conducted to develop and test a theoretically derived Cigarette Dependence Questionnaire for adult male smokers. Background., Fagerstrom questionnaires have been used worldwide to assess cigarette dependence. However, these assessments lack any theoretical perspective. A theory-based approach is needed to ensure valid assessment. Methods., In 2007, an initial pool of 103 Cigarette Dependence Questionnaire items was distributed to 109 adult smokers in Taiwan. Item analysis was conducted to select items for inclusion in the refined scale. The psychometric properties of the Cigarette Dependence Questionnaire were further evaluated 2007,08, when it was administered to 256 respondents and their saliva was collected and analysed for cotinine levels. Criterion validity was established through the Pearson correlation between the scale and saliva cotinine levels. Exploratory factor analysis was used to test construct validity. Reliability was determined with Cronbach's alpha coefficient and a 2-week test,retest coefficient. Results., The selection of 30 items for seven perspectives was based on item analysis. One factor accounting for 44·9% of the variance emerged from the factor analysis. The factor was named as cigarette dependence. Cigarette Dependence Questionnaire scores were statistically significantly correlated with saliva cotinine levels (r = 0·21, P = 0·01). Cronbach's alpha was 0·95 and test,retest reliability using an intra-class correlation was 0·92. Conclusion., The Cigarette Dependence Questionnaire showed sound reliability and validity and could be used by nurses to set up smoking cessation interventions based on assessment of cigarette dependence. [source]

Clinical Learning Environment Inventory: factor analysis

JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 6 2010
Jennifer M. Newton
newton j.m., jolly b.c., ockerby c.m. & cross w.m. (2010) Clinical Learning Environment Inventory: factor analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing,66(6), 1371,1381. Abstract Title.,Clinical Learning Environment Inventory: factor analysis. Aim., This paper is a report of the psychometric testing of the Clinical Learning Environment Inventory. Background., The clinical learning environment is a complex socio-cultural entity that offers a variety of opportunities to engage or disengage in learning. The Clinical Learning Environment Inventory is a self-report instrument consisting of 42 items classified into six scales: personalization, student involvement, task orientation, innovation, satisfaction and individualization. It was developed to examine undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of the learning environment whilst on placement in clinical settings. Method., As a component of a longitudinal project, Bachelor of Nursing students (n = 659) from two campuses of a university in Australia, completed the Clinical Learning Environment Inventory from 2006 to 2008. Principal components analysis using varimax rotation was conducted to explore the factor structure of the inventory. Results., Data for 513 students (77%) were eligible for inclusion. Constraining data to a 6-factor solution explained 51% of the variance. The factors identified were: student-centredness, affordances and engagement, individualization, fostering workplace learning, valuing nurses' work, and innovative and adaptive workplace culture. These factors were reviewed against recent theoretical developments in the literature. Conclusion., The study offers an empirically based and theoretically informed extension of the original Clinical Learning Environment Inventory, which had previously relied on ad hoc clustering of items and the use of internal reliability of its sub-scales. Further research is required to establish the consistency of these new factors. [source]

Trust in Nurses Scale: construct validity and internal reliability evaluation

JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 3 2010
Laurel E. Radwin
radwin l.e. & cabral h.j. (2010) Trust in Nurses Scale: construct validity and internal reliability evaluation. Journal of Advanced Nursing66(3), 683,689. Abstract Aim., This paper is a report of the continued psychometric evaluation of the Trust in Nurses Scale. Background., Qualitative analyses indicate that trust in nurses is critically important to adult patients. Instruments that distinctively measure this concept are lacking. A middle-range theory of patient-centred nursing care provided the theoretical basis for the Trust in Nurses Scale. Content validity was assessed by an expert panel and patient interviews. Construct validity and reliability were found acceptable using multi-trait/multi-item analysis techniques. These findings were previously reported. Methods., Construct validity and reliability of the Trust in Nurses Scale was assessed in 2007 using data collected during 2004,2005 from 187 hospitalized patients in a haematology-oncology setting. Trust in nurses (the latent factor) was operationalized by five items (manifest variables) using confirmatory factor analyses. Fit statistics included comparative fit index, Tucker-Lewis Index, root mean square error of approximation and the standardized root mean square residual. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using coefficient alpha. Findings., Both a five-item and a four-item version demonstrate acceptable psychometric properties. The five-item version met three fit statistics criteria. Fifty-nine per cent of the variance was explained. A four-item version met all fit statistics criteria. Sixty-six per cent of the variance was explained. Acceptable internal consistency reliability was found for both versions. Conclusion., Previous psychometric testing of the Trust in Nurses Scale provided evidence of the instrument's reliability, content validity and construct validity. The presented analyses further support construct validity. Thus, cumulative findings indicate that the instrument measures with a few items the underlying concept of trust. [source]

Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure: psychometric testing with Chinese nursing students

JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 12 2009
Jian Wang
Abstract Title.,Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure: psychometric testing with Chinese nursing students. Aim., This paper is a report of the psychometric testing of the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure with Chinese nursing students. Background., Although the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure has been widely used to measure educational environments in the healthcare professions, no psychometric evaluation of the measure with Chinese nursing students has been reported. Method., Data from 214 nursing students were collected during a 2-month period between December, 2004 and January, 2005. Exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency reliability and Cronbach's alpha were examined. Results., Five factors were found by principal components analysis with Oblimin with Kaiser Normalization rotation. The original factor names were maintained, but items in each factor changed. These five factors all achieved eigenvalues >1, and in total accounted for 52·186% of the variance. Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0·623 to 0·9 across factors, with an overall alpha of 0·949. Conclusion., The Chinese version of the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure could be a valuable measurement for nursing educators in professional development programmes and nursing curriculum design. Further studies need in different Chinese nursing schools and larger sample sizes to be conducted to validate its stability and factor structure. [source]

The De-Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale: development and psychometric testing

JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 9 2009
Johannes Nau
Abstract Title.,The De-Escalating Aggressive Behaviour Scale: development and psychometric testing. Aim., This paper is a report of a study to develop and test the psychometric properties of a scale measuring nursing students' performance in de-escalation of aggressive behaviour. Background., Successful training should lead not merely to more knowledge and amended attitudes but also to improved performance. However, the quality of de-escalation performance is difficult to assess. Method., Based on a qualitative investigation, seven topics pertaining to de-escalating behaviour were identified and the wording of items tested. The properties of the items and the scale were investigated quantitatively. A total of 1748 performance evaluations by students (rater group 1) from a skills laboratory were used to check distribution and conduct a factor analysis. Likewise, 456 completed evaluations by de-escalation experts (rater group 2) of videotaped performances at pre- and posttest were used to investigate internal consistency, interrater reliability, test,retest reliability, effect size and factor structure. Data were collected in 2007,2008 in German. Findings., Factor analysis showed a unidimensional 7-item scale with factor loadings ranging from 0·55 to 0·81 (rater group 1) and 0·48 to 0·88 (rater group 2). Cronbach's alphas of 0·87 and 0·88 indicated good internal consistency irrespective of rater group. A Pearson's r of 0·80 confirmed acceptable test,retest reliability, and interrater reliability Intraclass Correlation 3 ranging from 0·77 to 0·93 also showed acceptable results. The effect size r of 0·53 plus Cohen's d of 1·25 indicates the capacity of the scale to detect changes in performance. Conclusion., Further research is needed to test the English version of the scale and its validity. [source]

A new scale to measure family members' perception of community health care services for persons with Huntington disease

JOURNAL OF EVALUATION IN CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 3 2010
Valmi D. Sousa PhD CNS-BC RN
Abstract Rationale, aims, and objectives, Huntington disease (HD) is a progressive genetic brain disease leading to disruptive cognitive, behavioural and physical impairments. Persons with the condition and their caregivers need appropriate and accessible health care services to help them manage the disease adequately. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a new scale that measures family members' perception of community health care services (CHCS) for persons with HD. Methods, A methodological design was used to examine the initial reliability and dimensionality of the CHCS scale among 245 family members of persons with a diagnosis of HD. Data analysis consisted of computing Cronbach's , coefficients, calculating the 95% confidence interval for , and performing item-analysis and exploratory factor analysis. Results, Reliability of the scale based on Cronbach's , was 0.83. Factor analysis using principal component analysis and varimax rotation suggested that three interpretable factors underlie the scale. Factor 1, HD knowledge, had , = 0.82, eigenvalue of 4.67 and explained 33.42% of the variance; factor 2, HD community resources, had , = 0.62, eigenvalue of 1.68 and explained 12.02% of the variance; factor 3, individualized HD management, had , = 0.77, eigenvalue of 1.45 and explained 10.39% of the variance. Conclusions, Findings from this study provide evidence of both construct validity and internal consistency reliability of the CHCS scale. Further psychometric testing of the scale in other samples of family caregivers of persons with HD is warranted. [source]

Detection of Malingered PTSD: An Overview of Clinical, Psychometric, and Physiological Assessment: Where Do We Stand?

JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 3 2007
Ryan C. W. Hall M.D.
ABSTRACT: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can be easily malingered for secondary gain. For this reason, it is important for physicians to understand the phenomenology of true PTSD and indicators that suggest an individual is malingering. This paper reviews the prevalence of PTSD for both the general population and for specific events, such as rape and terrorism, to familiarize evaluators with the frequency of its occurrence. The diagnostic criteria for PTSD, as well as potential ambiguities in the criteria, such as what constitutes an exposure to a traumatic event, are reviewed. Identified risk factors are reviewed as a potential way to help differentiate true cases of PTSD from malingered cases. The question of symptom overreporting as a feature of the disease versus a sign of malingering is discussed. We then examine how the clinician can use the clinical interview (e.g., SIRS, CAPS), psychometric testing, and the patient's physiological responses to detect malingering. Particular attention is paid to research on the MMPI and the subscales of infrequency (F), infrequency-psychopathology (Fp), and infrequency-posttraumatic stress disorder (Fptsd). Research and questions regarding the accuracy of self-report questionnaires, specifically the Mississippi Scale (MSS) and the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI), are examined. Validity, usability, and cutoff values for other psychometric tests, checklists, and physiological tests are discussed. The review includes a case, which shows how an individual used symptom checklist information to malinger PTSD and the inconsistencies in his story that the evaluator detected. We conclude with a discussion regarding future diagnostic criteria and suggestions for research, including a systematic multifaceted approach to identify malingering. [source]

PROFESSION AND SOCIETY: Recovered Medical Error Inventory

JOURNAL OF NURSING SCHOLARSHIP, Issue 3 2010
DNSc, Patricia C. Dykes RN
Abstract Purpose: To describe the development and psychometric testing of the Recovered Medical Error Inventory (RMEI). Design and Methods: Content analysis of structured interviews with expert critical care registered nurses (CCRNs) was used to empirically derive a 25-item RMEI. The RMEI was pilot tested with 345 CCRNs. The data set was randomly divided to use the first half for reliability testing and the second half for validation. A principal components analysis with Varimax rotation was conducted. Cronbach's alpha values were examined. A t test and Pearson correlation were used to compare scores of the two samples. Findings: The RMEI consists of 25 items and two subscales. Evidence for initial reliability includes a total scale alpha of .9 and subscale alpha coefficients of .88 (mistake) and .75 (poor judgment). Conclusions: The RMEI subscales have satisfactory internal consistency reliability and evidence for construct validity. Additional testing is warranted. Clinical Relevance: A tool to measure CCRNs' experiences with recovering medical errors allows quantification of nurse surveillance in promoting safe care and preventing unreimbursed hospital costs for treating nosocomial events. [source]

Psychometric Analysis of the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure (B-PEM)

JOURNAL OF NURSING SCHOLARSHIP, Issue 1 2010
Anndrea Flint RN, MHSc(HSM)
Abstract Purpose: To undertake rigorous psychometric testing of the newly developed contemporary work environment measure (the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure [B-PEM]) using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Methods: Content validity of the 33-item measure was established by a panel of experts. Initial testing involved 195 nursing staff using principal component factor analysis with varimax rotation (orthogonal) and Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using data from a further 983 nursing staff. Results: Principal component factor analysis yielded a four-factor solution with eigenvalues greater than 1 that explained 52.53% of the variance. These factors were then verified using confirmatory factor analysis. Goodness-of-fit indices showed an acceptable fit overall with the full model, explaining 21% to 73% of the variance. Deletion of items took place throughout the evolution of the instrument, resulting in a 26-item, four-factor measure called the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure-Tested. Conclusions: The B-PEM has undergone rigorous psychometric testing, providing evidence of internal consistency and goodness-of-fit indices within acceptable ranges. The measure can be utilised as a subscale or total score reflective of a contemporary nursing work environment. Clinical Relevance: An up-to-date instrument to measure practice environment may be useful for nursing leaders to monitor the workplace and to assist in identifying areas for improvement, facilitating greater job satisfaction and retention. [source]

Development of a Self-Report Instrument to Measure Patient Safety Attitudes, Skills, and Knowledge

JOURNAL OF NURSING SCHOLARSHIP, Issue 4 2008
Rebecca Schnall
Purpose: To describe the development and psychometric testing of the Patient Safety Attitudes, Skills and Knowledge Scale (PS-ASK). Methods: Content validity of a 35-item instrument was established by a panel of experts. The instrument was pilot tested on 285 nursing students. Principal components analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation was conducted, and Cronbach's alphas were examined. Paired samples t-tests were used to show responsiveness of the scales pre- and post-patient safety curriculum. Results: The final instrument consists of 26 items and three separate scales: attitudes, skills, and knowledge. The attitudes and skills scales each had a three-factor solution. The knowledge items had a one-factor solution. Both skills and knowledge were significantly increased at Time 2 (p<0.001). Conclusions: The skills and knowledge subscales had satisfactory internal consistency reliability, evidence for construct validity, and responsiveness for use as independent scales in future studies. The attitudes subscale needs further refinement before implementation. Comparison with other measures of patient safety skills (e.g., observation) and knowledge are warranted. Clinical Relevance: A tool to measure clinicians' attitudes, skills, and knowledge about patient safety might be useful to evaluate nurses and other clinicians during educational preparation and in practice. [source]

Mental health practitioner's attitude towards maintenance neuroleptic treatment for people with schizophrenia

JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRIC & MENTAL HEALTH NURSING, Issue 2 2007
N. HARRIS phd bsc(hons) rmn rgn
Pharmacological relapse prevention treatment for people with schizophrenia can last for years if not the person's lifetime. The attitude mental health practitioners (MHPs) hold regarding this treatment can have profound effects on service users' decisions related to treatment. The small number of studies focusing on this issue concentrates on the use of ,depot' preparations. To develop a validated inventory to assess the attitudes of MHPs towards treatment and evaluate the attitudes of a sample of MHPs. The inventory was developed in three stages; item selection, piloting and psychometric testing. The validated inventory was administered to a sample of 50 MHPs undertaking a degree level course in the psycho-social management of psychosis. The final inventory consisted of 21 attitudinal items and four items related to the practitioner's confidence. Results from the sample revealed areas of agreement, variation and uncertainty. A valid and reliable inventory has been developed. The administration of the inventory to 50 MHPs returned results which reflect variable attitudes and perceptions of competency towards maintenance neuroleptic treatment. This diversity in attitudes may have an impact on management of people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and clinical outcomes. [source]

The Arabic ICIQ-UI SF: An alternative language version of the English ICIQ-UI SF

NEUROUROLOGY AND URODYNAMICS, Issue 3 2006
H. Hashim
Abstract Aims Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common and distressing condition. A variety of questionnaires are currently available to assess UI and its impact on patients' lives. However, most have not been adapted for international use. Following a systematic review of the literature and existing questionnaires the International Consultation on Incontinence short form questionnaire (ICIQ-UI SF) was developed, and has since been translated into many languages for local use. This paper reports the development and validation of the first UI questionnaire in the Arabic language. The development of this questionnaire will facilitate the assessment of UI in both clinical practice and research in the Middle-East. Methods Translation and validation of the Arabic version of the ICIQ-UI is described. Standard methods of translation by native Arabic and English speakers (including translation and back translation) are followed. The psychometric properties of the questionnaire, including its validity, reliability and sensitivity to change, are examined. The validation of the questionnaire involved patients attending urology outpatient clinics in two Middle-Eastern countries. Results The Arabic ICIQ-UI SF was found to be valid, reliable and responsive, indicating that the psychometric properties of the questionnaire have remained constant throughout the adaptation process. Furthermore, the findings of the psychometric testing confirm those found for the UK-English ICIQ-UI SF. Conclusions The development of this questionnaire will allow the study of Arabic speaking groups with UI in many countries around the world. This may act as an example to initiate the translation and validation of other patient reported outcomes into the Arabic language, thereby enabling more multinational and cross-cultural research into diseases in given areas. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Measuring Community Coalition Effectiveness Using the ICE© Instrument

PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING, Issue 1 2006
Mary E. Cramer
ABSTRACT This article presents the development and psychometric testing of the Internal Coalition Effectiveness (ICE) instrument, which was based on the conceptual model Internal Coalition Outcome Hierarchy. Sixty-one items were derived from literature about successful coalitions, and the ICE instrument was tested for reliability and validity. A national panel of eight experts conducted content validity. Remaining tests involved a sample of 61 members and leaders of a large midwestern coalition (77% response rate, n = 47). Content validity involved a two-stage process for rigorous item development and quantification (0.88, p < 0.05). Internal consistency was based on bivariate Pearson's correlation of 0.30,0.70 for two-item scales and Cronbach's ,(, = 0.70). Construct validity was assessed by correlation analysis, independent Student's t tests, and informal coalition feedback. The final 30-item version of ICE is psychometrically sound. Findings were shared with the local coalition, and, in support of the instrument's validity, members and leaders found this information useful for promoting coalition sustainability by identifying internal strengths and areas for improvement. The ICE instrument adds to the body of literature by measuring critical constructs of coalition effectiveness and has significant application for public health nurses working as evaluators for coalitions engaged in community health programing. [source]

Women's Views of Pregnancy Ultrasound: A Systematic Review

BIRTH, Issue 4 2002
Jo Garcia MSc
ABSTRACT: Background: Ultrasound has become a routine part of care for pregnant women in most countries with developed health services. It is one of a range of techniques used in screening and diagnosis, but it differs from most others because of the direct access that it gives parents to images of the fetus. A review of women's views of ultrasound was commissioned as part of a larger study of the clinical and economic aspects of routine antenatal ultrasound use. Methods: Studies of women's views about antenatal screening and diagnosis were searched for on electronic databases. Studies about pregnancy ultrasound were then identified from this material. Further studies were found by contacting researchers, hand searches, and following up references. The searches were not intentionally limited by date or language. Studies that reported direct data from women about pregnancy ultrasound were then included in a structured review. Studies were not excluded on the basis of methodological quality unless they were impossible to understand. They were read by one author and tabulated. The review then addressed a series of questions in a nonquantitative way. Results: The structured review included 74 primary studies represented by 98 reports. Studies from 18 countries were included, and they employed methods ranging from qualitative interviewing to psychometric testing. The review included studies from the very early period of ultrasound use up to reports of research on contemporary practice. Ultrasound is very attractive to women and families. Women's early concerns about the safety of ultrasound were rarely reported in more recent research. Women often lack information about the purposes for which an ultrasound scan is being done and the technical limitations of the procedure. The strong appeal of diagnostic ultrasound use may contribute to the fact that pregnant women are often unprepared for adverse findings. Conclusions: Despite the highly varied study designs and contexts for the research included, this review provided useful information about women's views of pregnancy ultrasound. One key finding for clinicians was the need for all staff, women, and partners to be well informed about the specific purposes of ultrasound scans and what they can and cannot achieve. (BIRTH 29:4 December 2002) [source]

Development and validation of a questionnaire for the assessment of bowel and lower urinary tract symptoms in women

BJOG : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 4 2002
L. Hiller
Objective To develop a simple but sensitive instrument to evaluate and document symptoms of both bowel and urinary dysfunction in women. Design A 22-item questionnaire covering a range of bowel and urinary symptoms was developed and underwent rigorous psychometric testing. Setting The gynaecology departments of three hospitals, a urogynaecology clinic, a functional bowel clinic and a general practice. Population Six hundred and thirty women, comprising four groups: 1. women awaiting hysterectomy (n= 379), 2. women following hysterectomy (n= 45), 3. women referred with functional bowel and/or urinary symptoms (n= 65), 4. asymptomatic controls (n= 141). Main outcome measures The content, construct and criterion validity, internal consistency, reliability and responsiveness of the questionnaire were measured. Results Peer and patient reports and missing data patterns supported face and content validity. Factor analysis showed a clinically relevant four-factor structure with low content replication able to distinguish between patient groups, indicating good internal structure. Comparison with clinical, anorectal physiological, videoproctographic, transit time and urodynamic test results provide provisional indication of criterion validity. Key domain question analysis and Cronbach's alphas showed internal consistency. Kappa values demonstrated good test,retest reliability and key question correlation over time proved responsiveness. Conclusions Our findings support the suitability, clinical validity, reliability and responsiveness of a simple questionnaire, which is sensitive to the constraints of clinical practice. The authors recommend its use in health care evaluation research assessing the effects of pelvic surgery and as a useful tool in comparing treatment efficacy. [source]

White matter changes in normal pressure hydrocephalus and Binswanger disease: specificity, predictive value and correlations to axonal degeneration and demyelination

ACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 6 2002
M. Tullberg
Objectives, To analyse the diagnostic and prognostic value of periventricular hyperintensity (PVH) and deep white matter hyperintensity (DWMH) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes and their relation to symptoms and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of demyelination (sulphatide) and axonal degeneration [neurofilament triplet protein (NFL)] in a large series of patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) and Binswanger disease (BD). Materials and methods, PVH and DWMH were determined by a semi-automatic segmentation method on T2-weighted images in 29 patients with NPH and 17 patients with BD. CSF analyses, psychometric testing and quantification of balance, gait and continence were performed in all patients and also postoperatively in NPH patients. Results, No MRI variable could identify NPH or BD patients. Abundant PVH and DWMH preoperatively correlated with improvement in gait, balance and psychometric performance after shunt surgery (P < 0.05). CSF sulphatide correlated positively with the amount of DWMH (P < 0.05) while NFL was correlated to both PVH and DWMH (P < 0.05). Abundant PVH correlated with poor psychometric performance while DWMH correlated with gait disturbance (P < 0.05). Postoperative reduction in PVH correlated with improvement in gait, balance and psychometric performance. Conclusion, In spite of a refined quantification method, NPH and BD patients exhibited similar MRI changes. MRI had a predictive value in NPH patients. DWMH might relate to demyelination and PVH to neuronal axonal dysfunction. NPH and BD share the major part of symptoms and MRI changes, indicating a common pathophysiological pattern, and we raise the question of how to treat BD patients. [source]