Psychometric instrument evaluation: the pediatric family satisfaction questionnaire.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate parental satisfaction with hospital care in general pediatric units. A search for a valid parental satisfaction instrument resulted in the selection of the Pediatric Family Satisfaction Questionnaire (PFSQ) (Budreau & Chase, 1994). This paper will report on the psychometric testing of the PFSQ.

METHODS

The data were retrieved from several years of patient satisfaction surveys collected at a large Midwest hospital and clinics. The SPSS statistical software was used to test the reliability and construct validity of the PFSQ.

RESULTS

Alpha for the total instrument was .83, based on 327 cases and 35 items. Factor analysis indicated two main factors, nursing care and medical care, with a total of 30 items.

CONCLUSION

The PFSQ is considered a promising instrument for evaluating parental satisfaction in general, inpatient pediatric units. urther development of the instrument is suggested.