Article

The construct validity, test-retest reliability, and measurement error
of the Arm Function in Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire (AMSQ) were examined.
Additionally, the influence of administration-method on reliability and
measurement error was investigated. METHOD: 112 Dutch adult MS-patients from an
academic- and a residential care-facility participated. Questionnaires were
administered on paper, online or as interview, and patients performed several
performance tests. Construct validity was assessed by testing pre-defined
hypotheses. Reliability was assessed using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients
(ICCs), Standard Error of Measurements (SEMs) and Smallest Detectable Changes
(SDCs). RESULTS: For construct validity (N = 105) 9 of 13 hypotheses were
confirmed (69%). As expected, the AMSQ showed moderate to strong relationships
with the instruments measuring similar constructs. The test-retest reliability
coefficient was 0.96 (95% Confidence Interval 0.94-0.97); SEM was 6.3 (6.3% of
scale range); SDC was 17.5 (on a sale from 0 to 100). Different
administration-methods showed good reliability (ICC 0.88-0.94) and small standard
errors (SEM 5.6-7.2). CONCLUSION: The AMSQ shows satisfying results for validity
and excellent reliability; allowing for proper use in research. Due to a large
SDC value, caution is needed when using the AMSQ in individual patient care.
Further research should determine whether the SDC is smaller than the minimal
important change. Implications for Rehabilitation The Arm Function in Multiple
Sclerosis Questionnaire (AMSQ) measures activity limitations due to hand and arm
functioning in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Results of this study
confirm adequate validity and reliability of the AMSQ in patient with MS. The
equivalence of scores from online, paper or interview administration is
supported. A change score of >/=18 points on the scale of the AMSQ (on a scale
0-100) needs to occur to be certain a change beyond measurement error has
occurred in an individual patient.

Langue : ANGLAIS