Translation and cross-cultural validation of the technological competence as caring in nursing instrument for the portuguese cultural context: A methodological study.

AIM: To translate, culturally and linguistically adapt and validate the psychometric properties of the Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing Instrument, for the Portuguese cultural context.

BACKGROUND

The integration of caring practices with technological and informatics knowledge is central to advancing nursing and requires a refined understanding of the interaction between human care and technology-enabled practice. In this context, the importance of an instrument capable of assessing technological competence in nursing care becomes evident. The Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing Instrument (TCCNI-RePract), evaluates this competence across two dimensions: perception and practice.

DESIGN

The study followed a two-phase design consisting of qualitative translation and quantitative psychometric validation phases.

METHODS

This methodological, exploratory, cross-sectional study evaluated the psychometric properties of the TCCNI-RePract in a Portuguese sample (n = 257, non-random). Transcultural adaptation followed established guidelines to assess the instrument's validity, reliability and sensitivity. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis were performed.

RESULTS

The Portuguese version of the TCCNI_RePract instrument consists of two scales: an 18-item Perception dimension and a 21-item Practice dimension, both organized within a three-factor model that explains 54% and 62% of the total variance, respectively. The Perception and Practice dimensions demonstrated high internal consistency, with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.89 and 0.94.

CONCLUSION

The instrument demonstrates strong psychometric properties to assess technological competence as caring in nursing and can be used as a reliable and effective measure in the Portuguese health system.