Psychometric Assessment of the Communication Skills Scale Among Peruvian Nurses and Factors Associated with Job...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Psychometrics
• Health Psychology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic heightened job insecurity among healthcare professionals.
• Effective communication is crucial for nursing practice and patient outcomes.
• Assessing communication skills in diverse nursing populations is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Communication Skills Scale (CSS) in Peruvian nurses.
• To identify factors associated with job insecurity in this population during the pandemic.
• To culturally adapt the CSS for use in Peru.

Main Methods:

• Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the CSS structure.
• Convergent and criterion validity were examined.
• Stepwise multiple regression analyzed the relationship between communication skills and job insecurity.
• A focus group informed cultural adaptation.
• A virtual survey collected data from 225 nurses.

Main Results:

• The CSS demonstrated a robust internal structure and optimal reliability in Peruvian nurses.
• Job insecurity was significantly associated with contract type, communication skills, empathy, and job satisfaction.
• The scale's psychometric properties were confirmed for the Peruvian context.

Conclusions:

• The CSS is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing communication skills in Peruvian nurses.
• Strengthening nurses' communication skills and job satisfaction is vital for reducing job insecurity.
• Improving working conditions is recommended to promote well-being, especially during crises.