Inter and Intra-rater Reliability and Validity of an instrument made in rural set up to measure Maximum Inspiratory Pressure termed as Dhiraj Maximum Inspiratory Pressure Device

Abstract

Background: Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP) measures inspiratory force generated by respiratory muscles. MIP is measured with non-invasive pressure transducer device which has mouthpiece, pressure gauge, and dial showing readings. Respiratory muscle weakness is a common sign depicted in conditions like neuromuscular disorders, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory pathologies which affect the individual’s lung volume and capacity. The devices available in the market to measure the MIP are costly.
 Aim: This study was undertaken to find out inter-rater and intra-rater reliability and validity of therapist made instrument in rural set up to measure maximum inspiratory pressure (DMIPD).
 Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out in 40 normal healthy individuals without lung diseases were recruited as per inclusion criteria. MIP values were noted by two raters using the DMIPD and were then compared between two rater values to that of the gold standard values. Validity and reliability were calculated using interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and p-value.
 Result: Statistical analysis for inter-rater reliability by Kappa using SPSS 1.000 showing almost perfect agreement as per Kappa interpretation also for intra-rater analysis an ICC value of 0.96 depicting excellent validity and Cronbach alpha value of 0.97 thereby proving it to have excellent reliability.
 Conclusion: We conclude that DMIPD has excellent reliability and validity.