Clinimetric properties of the Turkish version of the De-Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) in intensive care unit survivors – a cross-sectional observational study

Abstract

Purpose To investigate the intra-rater reliability and the construct validity of the Turkish version of the De-Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) in intensive care unit (ICU) survivors. Methods Construct validity of the DEMMI was measured by correlating it with physical functioning scales. Known group comparison was made according to the Medical Research Council Sum Score (MRC-SS). Internal consistency was determined by measuring Cronbach α coefficient. Test-retest reliability was assessed by performing the DEMMI by the same researcher after 24 h and calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The minimal detectable change (MDC) value was calculated. Results One hundred and two patients discharged from the ICU were included. The ICC for intra-reliability was 0.972. The internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach = 0.991). The DEMMI total score was correlated with the Barthel Index (r = 0.791), Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (r = 0.722), MRC-SS (0.614), ICU length of stay (r = –0.515), and total mechanical ventilation duration (r = –0.488). The DEMMI was able to differentiate between MRC-SS subgroups (p < 0.001), whereby higher strength was associated with higher DEMMI scores. The MDC was determined to be 6.82 out of 100 points. Conclusion The Turkish version of the DEMMI is reliable and valid for measuring mobility in ICU survivors. Trial registration number NCT05196997 Implications for Rehabilitation The Turkish version of the de-Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) is a reliable and valid outcome measure for the assessment of functional mobility in intensive care unit survivors. The Turkish version of the DEMMI could guide clinicians working in the field of intensive care in the planning of rehabilitation programs after discharge.