Psychometric analysis of the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure (B-PEM).
OBJECTIVE
To undertake rigorous psychometric testing of the newly developed contemporary work environment measure (the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure [B-PEM]) using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.


METHODS
Content validity of the 33-item measure was established by a panel of experts. Initial testing involved 195 nursing staff using principal component factor analysis with varimax rotation (orthogonal) and Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using data from a further 983 nursing staff.


RESULTS
Principal component factor analysis yielded a four-factor solution with eigenvalues greater than 1 that explained 52.53% of the variance. These factors were then verified using confirmatory factor analysis. Goodness-of-fit indices showed an acceptable fit overall with the full model, explaining 21% to 73% of the variance. Deletion of items took place throughout the evolution of the instrument, resulting in a 26-item, four-factor measure called the Brisbane Practice Environment Measure-Tested.


CONCLUSIONS
The B-PEM has undergone rigorous psychometric testing, providing evidence of internal consistency and goodness-of-fit indices within acceptable ranges. The measure can be utilised as a subscale or total score reflective of a contemporary nursing work environment.


CONCLUSIONS
An up-to-date instrument to measure practice environment may be useful for nursing leaders to monitor the workplace and to assist in identifying areas for improvement, facilitating greater job satisfaction and retention.
Flint
Anndrea
A
Special Care Nursery, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia. Anndrea_Flint@health.qld.gov.au
Farrugia
Charles
C
Courtney
Mary
M
Webster
Joan
J
D000328:Adult; D001315:Australia; D004777:Environment; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008297:Male; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010559:Personnel Management; D010563:Personnel Turnover; D025341:Principal Component Analysis; D011594:Psychometrics; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires