Development and validation of the nursing clinical assessment tool (NCAT): a psychometric research study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The aim of this pilot psychometric study was to develop and assess the reliability, validity, and applicability of a nursing clinical assessment tool (NCAT) to assess students’ clinical performance in the clinical training. Methods Total of 325 forms were completed by 36 clinical raters for undergraduate nursing students who were selected using convenience sampling. International quality and safety education for nurses (QSEN) and Benson and Clark’s model guided the construction of the NCAT. Following literature review, a cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric testing were used. Results This newly developed tool showed substantial overall internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.74). Three factors (i.e. Care Provider, Leadership & Team Work and Professionalism and Ethical Considerations) were identified for construct validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Conclusions This study suggests that the NCAT is a reliable, valid and applicable tool. It can be used in clinical and educational settings. Further testing of the tool in similar and different cultures is recommended.