A researcher wishes to evaluate the reliability of a visual analog pain scale in a group of postoperative patients.The best way to do this is to compare results
A) to results of the test when given to another set of subjects.
B) to results from the same subjects using the FACES rating scale.
C) to results from a previous measure with a different visual analog scale.
D) to results from a group of subjects who have minimal or no pain.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reliability of a visual analog scale is best determined by the test-retest method,so the researcher should administer the test to two sets of subjects and compare the results.Comparing results using two different instruments does not determine reliability of the first measure.Comparing results from a previous measure using another version of the scale is a measure of alternate forms reliability.Changing the population does not allow for a test of the reliability of the measurement tool.

A Researcher Wishes to Evaluate the Reliability of a Visual