A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY TO DEVELOP A TOOL FOR THE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE STATUS OF OJAS

Abstract

Introduction: Developing valid and reliable tools for fundamental concepts is the need of the hour. The present study aims to develop a valid and reliable tool for measuring the status of Ojas. Methodology: In the conceptualisation part of the study, lakshanas of vitiation of Ojas explained by different Acharyas were identified as variables. By operationalisation, these variables were grouped under three domains and items were generated as questions. The study fulfilled all necessary steps of validated tool making, such as wording and sequencing of items, translation, back translation, and pre-testing. A pilot study was done on 30 individuals in 4 groups as per the inclusion criteria. Test-retest reliability was checked along with the pilot study. The tool was administered to 200 subjects in 4 groups as per the inclusion criteria. Face validity, content validity and construct validity of the tool were checked. Validation of the tool was done along with steps of tool development, and reliability was computed using Cronbach’s alpha. Item selection and reduction were carried out with statistical analysis. Results: The tool for clinical evaluation of the status of Ojas developed through this research has 37 items. The tool is reliable, with a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.963 (N=200). Based on scores, the population was divided into Pravaraojas, Madhyamaojas and Avaraojas. After statistical analysis, the variables were placed under seven subdomains. Discussion: The tool developed for clinical evaluation of the status of Ojas through this study is a validated and reliable tool to measure Ojas.