Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2025

Development of a Virtual Reality Assessment of Everyday Living Skills
Published on: April 23, 2014
Cross-cultural validation of the Short-Form Vascular Access Questionnaire
João Pedro Barros1,2, João A Fonseca3, Rui Pinto4
1Programme in Health Data Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
Background:
Vascular access (VA) is a central condition for hemodialysis (HD). Screening patients' views regarding their VA is a significant end point for improving the quality of care. The Short-form Vascular Access Questionnaire (SF-VAQ) is a specific questionnaire to assess patients' satisfaction levels regarding their VA.
Purpose:
This study aims to develop the Portuguese version of the SF-VAQ and assess its psychometric properties.
Methods:
A forward and back translation was used. A multicentric study was conducted with 156 patients undergoing hemodialysis to psychometric testing. Reliability (internal consistency and test-retest) was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient. A construct validity test was conducted using factor analysis. The convergent validity was calculated using the correlation coefficient.
Results:
An obtained Cronbach's alpha of 0.77 indicates good internal consistency. The test-retest reliability was established using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.771. The four sub-scales proposed by the instrument's designer were confirmed, which together accounted for 53% of the variance. The correlation with the Visual Analogue Scale was r = 0.895 (p < 0.001), confirming the convergent validity.
Conclusion:
The Portuguese version of the SF-VAQ is a valid and reliable instrument with good psychometric properties to be implemented to promote an evaluation of VA satisfaction in HD patients and improve patient care.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)
Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)
Prepare for the Procedure:
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above...

