Validation of IPA and SEPECSA in Italian Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis: A Psychometric Study

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Self-Efficacy for Performing Energy Conservation Strategies Assessment (SEPECSA) and assess the psychometric properties of the Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA) in an Italian-speaking population with multiple sclerosis (MS). A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants with MS. The SEPECSA and IPA were validated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments Checklist (COSMIN). Reliability was evaluated through Cronbach's alpha (α) and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), while validity was assessed correlating the instruments with the Fatigue Severity Scale, Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised, and MS Quality of Life-54. In 84 people, both scales demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α >0.9) and test-retest reliability (0.946 < ICC < 0.980). SEPECSA showed a significant correlation with fatigue (r = 0.349, p < .001), while IPA was associated with improved social integration (-0.354 <r> -0.547, p < .001) and quality of life (-.254 <r> -0.626; p < .001). Translated and culturally adapted SEPECSA and IPA are valid and reliable tools.