Development and validation of a critical care patient classification system.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the research methodology used in development and validation of a scientific patient classification instrument for South African critical care patients.


METHODS
This is a contextual, exploratory, and descriptive study. A two-phase validating model was used as a research method. In the development phase a literature review was carried out (domain identification), a provisional instrument developed (item generation), and a peer group discussion conducted (item formation). In the quantification phase 16 experts determined if both the items of the instrument and the entire instrument were content valid. The study was conducted within the framework of South African critical care nursing.


RESULTS
In the peer group discussion the instrument was debated until consensus was reached. In the quantification phase, both the items of the instrument and the entire instrument were rated as content valid.


CONCLUSIONS
Established patient classification systems can be successfully adapted and validated for local use.
Scribante
J
J
Rand Afrikaans University, Aucklandpark, South Africa.
Muller
M E
ME
Lipman
J
J
D016638:Critical Illness / Q000145:classification*; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D010361:Patients / Q000145:classification*; D010380:Peer Review / Q000379:methods; D015203:Reproducibility of Results