Executive Function Performance Test: transcultural adaptation, evaluation of psychometric properties in Brazil

Executive dysfunction occurs in 18.5% to 39% of patients who present with cognitive impairment. Occupational therapy aims to facilitate independence and autonomy, hence improving quality of life. The Executive Function Performance Test - Brazilian version (EFPT-BR) has been developed to assess the need for assistance in performing four basic daily tasks. The aims of this research were: (1) to offer cross-cultural adaptation in patients with stroke; (2) to assess the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the EFPT-BR in patients with stroke; (3) to assess the relationship between scores on the EFPT-BR in patients with stroke, and demographic variables, stroke location, symptoms of anxiety and depression.

The transcultural adaptation and validation were performed based on standard procedures, and psychometric properties were assessed in 86 Brazilian patients who suffered a stroke.

The test has shown a good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.819). The ICC for intra-rater reliability was 0.435 and for the inter-rater was 0.732. Significant correlations between scores in the EFPT-BR and executive measures (verbal fluency test, clock drawing test, digit span - forwards and backwards, zoo map test and Six Elements Test) were observed.

The EFPT-BR is a valid and reliable tool for occupational therapists to assess executive dysfunction in daily routine tasks in patients with stroke in Brazil.