Development and Validation of a Questionnaire on Healthcare-Associated Infections for Companions of Hospitalized Patients
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17058/reci.v15i4.20457Keywords:
Health education, Hospital infection, Public healthAbstract
Background and Objectives: Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) represent a major challenge in hospital settings. Hospitalized patients, healthcare professionals, and patient companions are potential disseminators of pathogens, reinforcing the need for preventive and educational strategies. This study aimed to develop and validate a data collection instrument designed to assess the perceptions of companions of hospitalized patients regarding the transmission and prevention of HAIs. Methods: This was a qualitative–quantitative, descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study conducted in four phases: (1) development of the data collection instrument; (2) content validation by experts using the Content Validity Index (CVI); (3) online validation; and (4) on-site validation in a hospital in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Results: A questionnaire consisting of 30 objective items distributed across four thematic sections was developed. Expert evaluation demonstrated high CVI values (ranging from 0.76 to 1.0) for items related to hand hygiene, use of alcohol-based hand rub, respiratory etiquette, vaccination status, and understanding of contagious diseases. The online validation involved 83 participants from different regions of the country and resulted in suggestions for instrument improvement. The on-site validation, conducted with 140 companions in a hospital setting, allowed for adjustments in language, response time, and feasibility of questionnaire application. Conclusion: The instrument showed satisfactory evidence of content validity, clarity, and comprehension, indicating its suitability for subsequent phases of application and investigation of companions’ perceptions regarding HAIs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Arielle Teixeira Silva, Rafaela Bergamini Resende Silveira, Evelyn Lívia Miranda da Silva, Fabrício Gomes Michel, Tânia Elizabete Dias de Castro, Thaymara Ribeiro Leite de Castro, Sabrynna Brito Oliveira
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