Development and Content Validation of an Instrument Covering Care for Pregnant Women with Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Introduction: The lack of discussions on nursing care for pregnant women with sickle cell disease in Brazil and the urgent need for intervention and improvements in the nursing care provided to these women sparked this study. In addition, validity is an essential attribute for instruments used in research and/or clinical practice. Objective: To develop and validate an instrument covering the care of pregnant women with sickle cell disease. Materials and methods: This is a methodological, content validation study conducted with specialist judges. The instrument was structured with 19 nursing diagnoses that addressed the biological, psychological, and social dimensions, as well as 126 nursing interventions. The Delphi technique was used with the participation of 18 judges. The results were analyzed using the content validity index and a level of agreement above 0.80. Results: Of the 145 items analyzed, 22 (15.17 %) scored a content validity index < 0.80, and the adjustments suggested by the judges were implemented. The instrument’s general content validity index was calculated at 0.87. The instrument reached acceptable content validity parameters, according to the criteria used. Conclusions: The instrument’s potential stands out, and it can be improved through its use as a resource for guiding nursing practices directed to pregnant women with sickle cell disease, both in primary health care and in hospital networks.