Development of the ICD Decision Analysis Scale
Grant
Overview
abstract
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The objective of the current project is to conduct a psychometric evaluation of a scale containing variables which may influence patient decision making; including device-related pros and cons. Items were derived from expert commentary and a review of the literature to determine a composite of variables which may influence a patient's decision and potential acceptance of the device. Approximately 300 cardiac patients who have been referred for possible ICD indication will rate the degree to which ICD-related variables would have an impact on their treatment decision. These pro/con perceptions will be measured and used as predictors of the behavior of choice: consent or denial to receive an ICD. This project will look at the factors that have weight in the decisional balance of the ICD, without making the assumption that choice for or against the ICD is necessarily the "correct decision". In constructing the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Decision Analysis Scale, factor analyses will be utilized to determine the factor structure of items related to the treatment choice of the ICD. This process will allow for scale construction used for larger scale testing of patient beliefs and decision making about this technology. These results could be used for improved patient education and informed decision making strategies.
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