Development and validation of gestational diabetes mellitus health behaviour scale

Abstract

Objective

We aimed to develop the health behaviour scale for gestational diabetes mellitus patients (HB-GDM) and evaluate its psychometric properties. The scale may provide theoretical basis and evidence for identifying the pathways to enhance health behaviours and optimise health management strategies.

Methods

The initial constructs and items of the scale were developed through literature review, qualitative analysis and Delphi expert consultation based on the socio-ecological model. Item analysis was conducted by four methods and using a sample (n = 235) recruited in China to form formal scale. Additional participants (n = 505) completed survey to measure the internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability, content validity, construct validity and criterion-related validity of scale.

Results

The scale contains six dimensions with a total of 29 items. The Cronbach's α of the scale was 0.912, McDonald's ω of the scale was 0.936, test–retest reliability was 0.957, content validity was 0.935, The cumulative variance contribution rate of the six common factors was 77.488 % and CFA model had acceptable goodness-of-fit indices(χ²/df = 2.567, RMSEA = 0.079). The criterion-related validity was 0.827(P<0.01).

Conclusion

HB-GDM scale showed satisfactory psychometric properties and has strong specialisation and better applicability.

Practice implications

The scale is favourable for pregnant women with GDM to clarify their unhealth behaviours. It provided guidance regarding maternal and postpartum follow-up care and the formulation of women health care strategies with regional characteristics.