Cross-cultural adaptation, validity, and reliability of the Wexner questionnaire in patients with functional constipation in an Iranian population

Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench, 2021 · DOI: · Published: July 1, 2021

Healthcare Gastroenterology Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study aimed to translate and adapt the Wexner questionnaire into Persian for Iranian patients with functional constipation. The Wexner questionnaire is a tool used to assess the severity of constipation. The researchers translated the questionnaire, ensured it was culturally appropriate, and then tested its validity (accuracy) and reliability (consistency) in a group of Iranian patients. The results showed that the Persian version of the Wexner questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for assessing constipation in Persian-speaking populations, meaning it can be used in clinics and research.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

136 patients with functional constipation

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional test development study

Key Findings

1
The content validity of the Persian version of Wexner’s questionnaire was acceptable, indicating that the questions were relevant and understandable to the target population.
2
The study found moderate construct and concurrent criteria validity for the Persian Wexner questionnaire, suggesting it aligns with other measures of constipation and related quality of life aspects.
3
The Persian version demonstrated excellent intrarater reliability (rp = 0.97), indicating that the questionnaire provides consistent results over time when administered to the same individuals.

Research Summary

The study successfully cross-culturally adapted the Wexner questionnaire into Persian for Iranian patients with functional constipation, following established guidelines for translation and adaptation. Psychometric testing of the Persian version showed acceptable content validity, moderate construct and concurrent validity, moderate internal consistency, and excellent intrarater reliability. The findings support the use of the Persian version of the Wexner questionnaire as a valid and reliable tool for assessing constipation in clinical and research settings within Persian-speaking populations.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

The Persian version of the Wexner questionnaire can be used by healthcare professionals to assess the severity of constipation in Persian-speaking patients.

Research

Researchers can use the validated Persian version of the questionnaire in studies investigating constipation and related interventions in Persian-speaking populations.

Cross-Cultural Research

This study provides a model for cross-cultural adaptation and validation of questionnaires, which can be applied to other health-related instruments and populations.

Study Limitations

1
The lack of assessment of diagnostic validity and non-determination of the cut-off point for patients with constipation in Persian-speaking countries.
2
Only functional constipated patients participated in this study; therefore, a study to apply the questionnaire in other subtypes of constipation is required.
3
Women experience more pelvic floor dysfunctions (e.g., through pregnancy and delivery) than men; therefore, the percentage of women was higher than men in the present study.

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