Assessing the reliability and validity of a urinary incontinence scale after radical prostatectomy

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a major complication after a radical prostatectomy and this problem can last for over a year after surgery. There is a need for valid research instruments to assess the extent of this problem. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of a urinary incontinence scale after radical prostatectomy (UISRP). Psychometric testing of the UISRP using a sample of 124 patients who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and undergone radical prostatectomy was conducted to determine the quality of items, internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, construct validity and criterion-related validity. The final sample consisted of 102 patients (92 center dot 7%) in the data analysis. The results indicated that one factor was identified that accounted for 60 center dot 28% of the explained variance. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0 center dot 90. Two-week test-retest reliability (ICC = 0 center dot 56; 95% CI = 0 center dot 26-0 center dot 72) was provided. Criterion-related validity was supported by correlation with the University of California, Los Angeles Prostate Cancer Index urinary function subscale (r = 0 center dot 74, p < 0 center dot 001) and a criterion variable measuring a 1-h pad test (r = 0 center dot 58, p < 0 center dot 001. The UISRP displays satisfactory reliability and validity for radical prostatectomy patients. The UISRP is a valuable research measure and can identify priority areas for nursing interventions designed to improve prostatectomy patients' outcomes.