Validity of the visual analogue scale as an instrument to measure self-efficacy in resuscitation skills.
BACKGROUND
Self-efficacy is an important factor in many areas of medical education, including self-assessment and self-directed learning, but has been little studied in resuscitation training, possibly because of the lack of a simple measurement instrument.


OBJECTIVE
We aimed to assess the validity of a visual analogue scale (VAS) linked to a single question as an instrument to measure self-efficacy with respect to resuscitation skills by comparing the VAS with a questionnaire and using known-groups comparisons.


METHODS
We developed questionnaires to measure self-efficacy for a number of resuscitation tasks and for computer skills. These were compared with VASs linked to a single question per task, using a multi-trait, multi-method matrix. We also used known-groups comparisons of self-efficacy in specific professional groups.


RESULTS
There was good correlation between the questionnaires and the VASs for self-efficacy for specific resuscitation tasks. There was a less clear correlation for self-efficacy for paediatric resuscitation overall. There was no correlation between self-efficacy for resuscitation and computer tasks. In specific professional groups, measured self-efficacy accorded with theoretical predictions.


CONCLUSIONS
A VAS linked to a single question appears to be a valid method of measuring self-efficacy with respect to specific well defined resuscitation tasks, but should be used with caution for multi-faceted tasks.
Turner
Nigel M
NM
Department of Perioperative Care and Emergency Medicine, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands. n.m.turner@umcutrecht.nl
van de Leemput
Anita J
AJ
Draaisma
Jos M T
JM
Oosterveld
Paul
P
ten Cate
Olle Th J
OT
D000776:Anesthesiology / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D009426:Netherlands; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards; D012151:Resuscitation / Q000592:standards*; D020377:Self Efficacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires / Q000592:standards*