The development and pilot testing of an occupational therapy group participation rating scale for inpatient mental...

Although group facilitation is a common task for occupational therapists in inpatient mental health settings and groups provide excellent opportunities to observe functioning, it can be difficult to report this information efficiently and effectively. To overcome these challenges, a group participating rating scale was developed. The scale was printed onto stickers so that upon completion, it could be placed directly into the medical record. This pilot study was undertaken to explore the measurement properties and construct validity of the rating scale.

Data were extracted from 528 rating scales completed for 51 individuals admitted to the inpatient unit where the study was conducted. Many-faceted Rasch analysis was used to examine several aspects of validity: rating scale validity; item functioning and person performance validity; statistical validity; and overall construct validity. In addition, to explore the capacity of the scale to detect change over time, the data were explored for differences in ratings over the course of individuals' admissions.

Rating scale functioning, item functioning and person performance validity were generally acceptable and statistical validity was good. Overall construct validity was generally acceptable, although there was a substantial 'ceiling effect' present. There were significant differences between ratings for individuals over time, suggesting that the scale may be effective in detecting change over time.

The rating scale has two main benefits: improving the quality and consistency of reporting of group participation assessment findings and the potential ability to track the quality (and quantity) of group participation over time. Other, secondary benefits included recognition of occupational therapy and reduced documentation time.