Validity and reliability of the left ventricular assist device self-care behaviour scale

Abstract

Background Adequate self-care behaviour is essential for patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to prevent complications, prolong life, and optimise quality of life. However, there were no valid and reliable measurements available to assess self-care behaviour among patients with LVAD. We have previously developed the 33-item LVAD self-care behaviour scale. Objectives To evaluate psychometric properties of the 33-item LVAD self-care behaviour scale. Methods and results Data on 127 patients with a LVAD in Israel, Japan, and the USA were analysed (mean age 51±14.3, 81% male). Exploratory factor analysis extracted three factors, and 13 items were excluded from the scale. Internal consistency assessed by Cronbach’s alpha was acceptable for the total scale (α = 0.80) and the three subscales: Factor 1: Monitoring (α = 0.81), Factor 2: Heart failure self-care (α = 0.67), and Factor 3: LVAD self-care (α = 0.63). The 20-item version of the LVAD self-care behaviour scale had sufficient convergent validity with another scale that assessed self-care related to the driveline of LVAD (r = 0.47, p<0.001). Test–retest reliability was adequate (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.58). Conclusions The 20-item version of the LVAD self-care behaviour scale showed adequate validity and reliability. The scale is ready for use in clinical practice and research. Additional testing might further optimise the scale.

Clinical Recommendations for Improving Palliative Nursing Care for Patients With a Left Ventricular Assist Device

“…The LVAD Self-Care Behavior Scale is a validated, 20-item tool that the primary LVAD nurse can use when preparing for life after implantation. 21 Patients need to be educated on device management including ensuring constant access to a power supply, understanding how to operate equipment, and adapting to daily activities such as showering and driving. Nurses are the primary team members who oversee discharge education from the hospital.…”

“…After LVAD implantation, patients and their caregivers must display a high degree of ability for self-care. The LVAD Self-Care Behavior Scale is a validated, 20-item tool that the primary LVAD nurse can use when preparing for life after implantation 21 …”