Construct validity of two pain behaviour observation measurement instruments for young children with burns by Rasch analysis

Abstract

In this study, construct validity of 2 pain behaviour observation measurement instruments for young children aged 1 to 56 months (mean age was 20 months) with burns is assessed by using Rasch analysis. The Rasch model, wherein data should meet the model expectations, assumes that an instrument measures one unidimensional construct, and focuses on the items of measurement instruments. The Pain Observation Scale for Young Children (POCIS) and the COMFORT Behaviour Scale (COMFORT-B) measure background and procedural pain as unidimensional. Adequate measurements for scientific research and daily practice can now be obtained.