The Comprehensive Prevention Knowledge and Applications Survey Instrument: its validity and reliability

Because the instruments used to measure current practices among primary care physicians in a broad range of prevention activities are limited, we developed a study to test a tool that would evaluate current prevention knowledge and applications, including items regarding activities to prevent AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. The Comprehensive Prevention Knowledge and Applications Survey Instrument measures knowledge, counseling capabilities, and use of recommended applications in preventive medicine. We designed and tested a 74-item instrument. Four recognized experts in preventive medicine and public health determined its content validity. We then proceeded with reliability testing with a random sample of 315 family physicians and replicated it with an additional 432 physicians for stability reliability. Internal consistency reliability and stability reliability have both been demonstrated for this instrument.