Reliability and validity of the Minimum Data Set 3.0 standardized self-care and mobility data elements among long-stay nursing home residents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To assess the reliability and validity of a subset of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Section GG data elements (i.e., standardized self -care, mobility) among 147 long -stay nursing home residents in seven nursing homes in five states. METHOD: Trained clinicians assessed residents' functional abilities using select Section GG items and Section G activities of daily living items. We examined the reliability and construct validity of the data using Cronbach's alpha, correlations between Section G and Section GG items, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and Rasch measurement analysis. RESULTS: We observed acceptable internal consistency values for all (0.98), self -care (0.93), and mobility (0.98) standardized items. Correlations between conceptually related Section G and Section GG items ranged from -0.53 to -0.84. CFA findings found acceptable values for all fit indices. Rasch analysis showed most items had acceptable fit statistics, except for the easiest and most difficult activities. CONCLUSION: These findings establish the feasibility of data collection, internal consistency reliability, and construct validity of the selected Section GG items among long -stay nursing home residents. Use of the same standardized data elements in post -acute and long-term care populations can support improved coding of function and enhance our understanding of resident functioning. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, xx(x), xx-xx.]