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Validity and Reliability of the Upper Extremity Work Demands Scale
Nora W Jacobs1, Redmar J Berduszek2, Pieter U Dijkstra1,3
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation
|November 17, 2016
Summary
The upper extremity work demands (UEWD) scale shows good reliability for assessing physical job tasks. However, its criterion validity was moderate, suggesting a need for scale modification and further research into construct validity.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ergonomics
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Assessing upper extremity work demands (UEWD) is crucial for preventing musculoskeletal disorders.
- The UEWD scale is a tool used to quantify these demands.
- Evaluating the psychometric properties of assessment tools is essential for their valid application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity and reliability of the upper extremity work demands (UEWD) scale.
- To determine criterion validity, structural validity, and reliability of the UEWD scale.
- To propose modifications to the UEWD scale based on the findings.
Main Methods:
- Participants from various physical work demand levels were included.
- Criterion validity was assessed by comparing observed and self-reported UEWD scores.
- Factor analysis was used for structural validity, and reliability was determined through test-retest measures and internal consistency.
Main Results:
- Criterion validity of the UEWD scale was found to be moderate (r = .44).
- Factor analysis supported 'force and posture' and 'repetition' as distinct subscales (Cronbach's alpha .79 and .84).
- The scale demonstrated good reliability, with good test-retest reliability (ICC = .84) and an SDC of 5.0.
Conclusions:
- The UEWD scale exhibits good reliability but moderate criterion validity.
- A modified UEWD scale with 2 subscales is proposed.
- Further research should explore other validity types, such as construct validity, due to limitations of observational methods.
