Content validity of the Chinese version of the PRAP scale: a convergent parallel mixed-methods study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the content validity of the Chinese-language version of the PRAP scale from comprehensive perspectives within the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) framework.

METHODS

We evaluated the content validity of the Chinese PRAP scale using COSMIN methodology in a convergent parallel mixed-methods design (August 2022-November 2023) at a tertiary children's hospital in Shanghai, with 57 content validity raters including nurses, social workers, and family caregivers. Quantitative (I-CVI, S-CVI/Ave) and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews were integrated.

RESULTS

The scale showed strong overall content validity based on the quantitative ratings (S-CVI/Ave = 0.92). Item 5 ("Parent/caregiver stress") showed the lowest relevance rating (I-CVI = 0.79). Qualitative feedback identified ambiguous phrasing in Items 4 and 5 and inconsistent interpretation of professional terminology.

CONCLUSION

Despite uncertainties in comprehensibility identified by qualitative insights, the findings provide evidence supporting the content validity of the Chinese PRAP scale, while acknowledging that further psychometric evaluation is required.