Development and analysis of measurement properties of the “maternal perception of childbirth fatigue questionnaire” (MCFQ)

Abstract

ObjectiveTo develop and analysis of measurement properties an instrument to assess maternal perception of fatigue during childbirth. MethodsThe study was developed in three steps: elaboration of the initial version of the questionnaire from literature review and semi-structured interviews of the health professionals and the women during labor; consultation of Brazilian specialists through a Delphi Study, to define the items that should compose the final version of the document; validation and factor analysis. ResultsA 51-item questionnaire, comprised of the perception of general health, physical, emotional and cognitive aspects of the parturient was composed through both literature search and the interview of health professionals and women during labor. The Delphi Study was composed of three rounds and the instrument was reduced to 12 questions by its end, involving the same aspects. Internal consistency testing resulted in a Cronbach's alpha of 0.56 in the 12 items. 8 more items were added in the last round of the Delphi study for a new evaluation. After the reevaluation, an acceptable Cronbach's alpha of 0.85 was obtained. The questionnaire showed three factors, the first being physical fatigue, then second with psychological fatigue and the third factor being emotional. ConclusionThe developed questionnaire is short, simple and easy to apply; it is clear and concise to evaluate the perception of fatigue in women during labor, showing adequate content, internal consistency and face validity.