Marrison, Eden (2020) Face and content validity and clinical utility of the Structured Observational Test of Function (SOTOF) from the perspective of patients with a neurological diagnosis and a stroke rehabilitation multi-disciplinary team. Masters thesis, York St John University.

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Abstract

Introduction
The Structured Observational Test of Function (SOTOF) is a standardised, valid and reliable test for older people with neurological conditions (Laver and Powell 1995), assessing occupational performance in four activities of daily living and associated neuropsychological deficits. The 2nd edition enhanced the dynamic element and introduced a scored graduated mediation protocol (Laver-Fawcett and Marrison 2016). This study aimed to explore the face validity, and aspects of content validity and clinical utility of the 2nd edition.

Method
Two sample groups were recruited: in-patient participants (≥ 60 years) with neurological diagnoses; and members of a stroke rehabilitation multi-disciplinary team (MDT). Patient participants undertook a semi-structured interview after completing SOTOF. MDT participants either participated in a semi-structured focus group or an online survey. Interviews and the focus group were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed through thematic analysis. Survey data was analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results
Patients (N = 10) agreed with more positive than negative rated statements related to their feelings about SOTOF. The majority recognised the purpose of the test. Themes were the: impact of the assessor on test experience; importance of the appropriateness of assessment level of difficulty; value for patients learning about their abilities / disabilities; and the realisation that patients may not absorb as much information as thought. MDT participants (N = 19) took part in the focus group (n = 11) or survey (n = 8). Themes were the: reliance on verbal handover; usefulness of scores to communicate results; lack of MDT’s awareness of SOTOF; and the usefulness of SOTOF to inform practice.

Conclusion
This study has contributed to the evidence base for the 2nd edition of SOTOF, establishing good face validity from patients’ perspectives and potential for clinical utility with the MDT. Content validity could not be established from the MDT perspective.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Status:	Published
Subjects:	R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology > RM695 Physical therapy. Occupational therapy
School/Department:	School of Science, Technology and Health
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/4623

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