A validation study using a modified version of Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients: Postural Stroke Study...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• A modified Swedish version of the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) was developed with item clarifications and a defined manual.
• This study aimed to validate the modified PASS for acute stroke patients in a clinical setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the intrarater and interrater reliability of the modified Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) in the acute phase after stroke.
• To determine the clinical utility of the Swedish version of PASS for stroke patients.

Main Methods:

• Intrarater reliability assessed with 114 patients; interrater reliability with 15 patients, all examined twice within 24 hours in the first week post-stroke.
• Statistical analysis included Spearman's rank correlation, Kappa coefficients, Percentage Agreement, and rank-invariant methods (Relative Position, Relative Concentration, Relative rank Variance).

Main Results:

• High intrarater reliability (Spearman's rho 0.88-0.98, Kappa 0.70-0.93) and interrater reliability (Spearman's rho 0.77-0.99) were observed for most items.
• Minor statistically significant differences were noted for specific items using rank-invariant methods, but Relative rank Variance was generally absent, indicating good consistency.

Conclusions:

• The modified Swedish PASS exhibits high intrarater and interrater reliability, supporting its use in acute stroke care.
• The scale is practical for both clinical practice and research, being easy to administer and quick to complete in the acute stroke phase.