Development and validation of the audio processor satisfaction questionnaire (APSQ) for hearing implant users

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Medical Devices
• Psychometrics

Background:

• User satisfaction is crucial for hearing implant system effectiveness.
• Existing measures for audio processor satisfaction are lacking.
• This study addresses the need for a standardized assessment tool.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the Audio Processor Satisfaction Questionnaire (APSQ).
• To provide a specific and standardized measure of user satisfaction with audio processors.
• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the new questionnaire.

Main Methods:

• A preliminary questionnaire was expert-developed.
• The final 15-item APSQ was developed after initial validation.
• Sixty-nine subjects completed the APSQ twice over 2-4 weeks for reliability testing.

Main Results:

• Subjects reported high satisfaction with the APSQ and their audio processors.
• The APSQ demonstrated good internal consistency and reliability.
• High and significant test-retest reliability was observed across all items and subscales.

Conclusions:

• The APSQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing user satisfaction.
• It can be used across various audio processors and hearing implant systems.
• The APSQ offers a quick and user-friendly method for satisfaction measurement.