Development and validation of the community development competency scale (ComDe-scale) for public health nurses in...

This study aimed to develop and validate the Community Development Competency Scale (ComDe-Scale) for public health nurses (PHNs) working in Community General Support Centers (CGSCs) in Japan.

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted with all 5495 CGSCs, yielding 1562 valid responses (28.4%). Item analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were performed to examine the factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity. Hypothesis testing included correlations with the Network Establishment Practices Scale (NEPS) and subgroup comparisons by CGSC experience and managerial status. Convergent and discriminant validity were assessed using average variance extracted (AVE), composite reliability (CR), and the Fornell-Larcker criterion. Measurement invariance across management types (direct vs. outsourced) was evaluated through multigroup CFA.

The ComDe-Scale demonstrated a three-factor, 20-item structure: (1) Strategic Management for Driving Community Health, (2) Empowerment for Interprofessional and Organizational Collaboration, and (3) Community-Rooted Outreach for Building Networks. Model fit indices indicated a good fit (CFI = 0.955, RMSEA = 0.060). Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α = 0.845-0.946). All hypotheses for construct validity were supported (p < .001). Convergent validity (AVE = 0.569-0.589, CR = 0.842-0.941) and discriminant validity (√AVE > inter-factor correlations) were confirmed. Partial measurement invariance was observed across management types.

The ComDe-Scale demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity and can serve as a practical tool for evaluating and strengthening the competencies of PHNs engaged in community development at CGSCs.