Psychometric Properties of the Freiburg Life Quality Assessment for Wounds Among Burned Patients.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Psychometric performance of quality of life (QoL) instruments must be evaluated prior to use. The Freiburg Life Quality Assessment for wounds (FLQA-w) emerged as one possible tool for burned patients. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of FLQA-w in this population.

METHODS: Composite reliability (CR) coefficients were estimated; convergent validity was assessed by Burns Specific Health Scale-Revised (BSHS-R), abbreviated QoL instrument (WHOQOL-BREF), and the visual analog scale; and responsiveness by comparing with the three visual analog scales.

RESULTS: CR coefficients of FLQA-w domains were suitable (0.72-0.88). Correlations were strong and negative (r = -.51 to -.76). Responsiveness was adequate-statistically significant changes were observed.

CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate reliable, valid, and responsive psychometric performance of the FLQA-w among burned patients.