Development and validation of the nursing clinical assessment tool (NCAT): A psychometric research study

The aim of this pilot psychometric study was to develop and assess the reliability, validity, and applicability of a nursing clinical assessment tool (NCAT) to assess students' clinical performance in the clinical training. Total of 325 forms were completed by 36 clinical raters for undergraduate nursing students who were selected using convenience sampling. International quality and safety education for nurses (QSEN) and Benson and Clark's (Benson, J., & Clark, F. (1982). A guide for instrument development and validation. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 36(12), 789-800) model guided the construction of the NCAT. Following literature review, a cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric testing were used. This newly developed tool showed substantial overall internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.74). Three factors (i.e. Care Provider, Leadership & Team Work and Professionalism and Ethical Considerations) were identified for construct validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). This study suggests that the NCAT is a reliable, valid and applicable tool. It can be used in clinical and educational settings. Further testing of the tool in similar and different cultures is recommended.