The Development of a Conceptual Framework and Preliminary Item Bank for Childbirth-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Measures.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a conceptual framework and preliminary item bank for childbirth-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) domains.

DATA SOURCES

Women, who were U.S. residents, ≥18 years old, and ≥20 weeks pregnant, were surveyed regarding their childbirth values and preferences (V&P) using online panels.

STUDY DESIGN

Using community-based research techniques and Patient-Reported Outcomes Management Information System (PROMIS ) methodology, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify self-reported survey items regarding patient-reported V&P and childbirth experiences and outcomes (PROs). The V&P/PRO domains were validated by focus groups. We conducted a cross-sectional observational study and fitted a multivariable logistic regression model to each V&P item to describe "who" wanted each item.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We identified 5,880 V&P/PRO items that mapped to 19 domains and 58 subdomains. We present results for the 2,250 survey respondents who anticipated a vaginal delivery in a hospital. Wide variation existed regarding each V&P item, and personal characteristics, such as maternal confidence and ability to cope well with pain, were frequent predictors in the models. The resulting preliminary item bank consisted of 60 key personal characteristics and 63 V&P/PROs.

CONCLUSIONS

The conceptual framework and preliminary (PROMIS ) item bank presented here provide a foundation for the development of childbirth-specific V&P/PROs.