Reliability of the Nepali Version of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Report

A self-report measure is considered a practical alternative tool for longitudinal monitoring and for community models of disability. Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Report (SCIM-SR) was developed to measure the functional independence of the spinal cord injury (SCI) population. For the application of this questionnaire in Nepali setting, the cross-cultural adaptation and reliability of the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR were also warranted. The aim of the study was to cross-culturally adapt the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR and determine its reliability. The English version of the SCIM-SR was translated into the Nepali language with cross-cultural adaptations following the Beaton guidelines. A total of 45 community-dwelling individuals with SCI administered the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR two times, with an interval of one week. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's alpha (α) were used to assess the test-retest reliability and internal consistency, respectively. Cross-cultural equivalence was achieved between the English version and the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR. The test-retest reliability was excellent, with ICCs for the total score 0.968 (95% confidence interval 0.941-0.982), self-care subscale 0.964 (0.934-0.980), respiration and sphincter management subscale 0.941 (0.893-0.968), and mobility subscale 0.966 (0.938-0.981). The internal consistency reached an acceptable range for the total score and most of the subscales except for those of respiration and sphincter management. Cronbach's α coefficients for the total score, self-care subscale, respiration and sphincter management subscale, and mobility subscale were 0.801, 0.959, 0.506, and 0.838, respectively. The Nepali version of the SCIM-SR was cross-culturally adapted and can be used as a reliable self-report instrument to assess functional independence among the community-dwelling SCI population in Nepal.