Patient Mealtime Experience: Reliability and Validity of a Novel Tool

Mealtime experience is a multidimensional concept extending beyond meal satisfaction. Many existing patient meal satisfaction tools fail to capture this complexity. This study examines the internal consistency, test-retest reliability and validity of the Austin Health Patient Mealtime Experience Tool.

The Austin Health Patient Mealtime Experience Tool was developed through a literature review and stakeholder input. Participants from acute, sub-acute and rehabilitation wards at Austin Health completed the tool (Test 1) alongside the Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire on Day 1. A follow-up assessment was conducted 7 days later (Test 2). Factor analysis assessed construct validity. Concurrent and convergent validity were determined by correlating scores with the Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's coefficient α, and test-retest reliability was evaluated through correlation analysis.

A total of 143 completed surveys were collected from participants aged 19-101 years (mean age: 72.1 ± 17.6 years), with 48.3% identifying as female. The Austin Health Patient Mealtime Experience Tool demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach's coefficient α = 0.75) and test-retest reliability (correlation coefficient = 0.73, p < 0.001, n = 94). Concurrent validity (correlation coefficient = 0.67, p < 0.001, n = 126) and convergent validity were also supported.

The Austin Health Patient Mealtime Experience Tool is a valid and reliable tool for assessing patient mealtime experience beyond meal satisfaction. It enables efficient data collection on key factors influencing mealtime experience, supporting informed decision-making to enhance patient care.