Development and Psychometric Testing of Powerlessness Assessment Scale for Patients

Powerlessness is a negative perception that can affect all people throughout their lives. Individuals are particularly vulnerable in times of illness and are prone to experience powerlessness. It is therefore important to learn about powerlessness, recognize the symptoms and take action.

This study aimed to develop a measurement tool that can evaluate the powerlessness of patients.

In this methodological study, face and content validity, construct validity and reliability analyses were examined to develop the scale and determine its psychometric properties. The scale's psychometric properties were tested with 1044 nurses and patients in different sample groups. Data were collected between 22 November 2022 and 2 December 2023.

The content validity index of the scale is 0.75. According to principal components analysis, the scale consisted of 24 items and four sub-dimensions. The total variance of the scale was 64.62%, and the factor loading values were in the range of 0.649-0.882. In confirmatory factor analysis, fit indices were acceptable or good. According to the reliability analysis, the scale's reliability is high. Test-retest showed that the scale made stable measurements over time.

In conclusion, the patient powerlessness assessment scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for patients and nurses.