Abstract
This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Self-Efficacy for Performing Energy Conservation Strategies Assessment (SEPECSA) and assess the psychometric properties of the Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA) in an Italian-speaking population with multiple sclerosis (MS). A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants with MS. The SEPECSA and IPA were validated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments Checklist (COSMIN). Reliability was evaluated through Cronbach’s alpha (α) and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), while validity was assessed correlating the instruments with the Fatigue Severity Scale, Community Integration Questionnaire–Revised, and MS Quality of Life–54. In 84 people, both scales demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α >0.9) and test–retest reliability (0.946 < ICC < 0.980). SEPECSA showed a significant correlation with fatigue (r = 0.349, p < .001), while IPA was associated with improved social integration (−0.354 <r> −0.547, p < .001) and quality of life (−.254 <r> −0.626; p < .001). Translated and culturally adapted SEPECSA and IPA are valid and reliable tools.
Plain Language Summary
The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and evaluate the properties of two tools for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to manage their fatigue and participate in daily activities. These tools are the Self-Efficacy for Performing Energy Conservation Strategies Assessment (SEPECSA) and the Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA). In Italy, current assessment methods for people with MS mostly focus on physical and functional outcomes, such as fatigue. Common tools used include the Fatigue Severity Scale and the Fatigue Symptoms and Impacts Questionnaire. However, these assessments do not fully capture how MS affects a person’s participation in daily life or their ability to manage fatigue using specific strategies. By adapting the SEPECSA and IPA to the Italian context, the research aims to fill these gaps and provide more meaningful insights for both patients and health care providers. Methods and Research Design: This study used a process to adapt the SEPECSA and IPA for Italian-speaking people with MS. The tools were translated, culturally adjusted, and tested for reliability and validity in Italy. Researchers used a checklist to ensure the tools were correctly adapted, and they compared the results with other established questionnaires related to fatigue, integration, and quality of life. Results and Importance: The study showed that both SEPECSA and IPA are reliable and valid for use in Italy. These tools assess not only self-efficacy in managing fatigue but also how MS affects participation in activities and autonomy. They provide clinicians with culturally relevant instruments to evaluate key aspects of MS, helping to create more personalized treatment plans and improve patient care. Why This Matters: Adapting and validating these tools for Italian-speaking people with MS enables better understanding of their experiences, leading to more effective interventions. This enhances support, independence, and participation in daily life.
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