Translation and reliability and validity testing of a Japanese version of the Intermittent Self-Catheterization Questionnaire among disposable and reusable catheter users

AimsQuality of life in the context of intermittent self-catheterization varies depending on the type of catheter used. This study translated into Japanese, evaluated the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the Intermittent Self-Catheterization Questionnaire (ISC-Q) among users of both reusable and disposable catheters, and examined the differences of it between them. MethodsSeventy patients (age meanSD: 62.817.7 years) completed the Japanese version of the ISC-Q (J-ISC-Q) at baseline and 4 weeks later. Spearman's correlation coefficients between the J-ISC-Q, and Qualiveen((R)) and the SF-12 were used for the translated scale's discriminant and convergent validity. Reliability was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), the Bland-Altman method, and Cronbach's alpha. ResultsParticipants answered all questionnaire items with no difficulties. Scores on the convenience domain were significantly higher among reusable compared to disposable catheter users (P=0.039). The J-ISC-Q had significantly strong correlations with the Qualiveen((R)) total scale (=-0.712 to -0.237), but weak correlations with the SF-12 total scale (=-0.231 to 0.474). Internal consistency was good (Cronbach's alphas>0.706), and test-retest reliability was acceptable (ICC>0.6) for the total scale and the four J-ISC-Q domains. The Bland-Altman analysis showed no systematic error between scores at baseline and 4 weeks later for the total scale and four domains of the J-ISC-Q. ConclusionsThe J-ISC-Q has acceptable reliability and validity for assessing both reusable and disposable catheter users, and can be used to promote tailored individualized interventions based on the impact of catheter use.