Psychometric testing of the Family Impact of Pain Scale using a sample of families in Australia

Abstract

Aim: To test the psychometric properties of the Family Impact of Pain Scale (FIPS) using a sample of families resident in North Queensland. Background: While pain has a significant effect on the individual, the entire family can be affected when a member of the family has chronic pain. FIPS is the only tool designed to measure the effect of pain on the family. It was originally developed in the UK using a sample of people with dental pain, so to test the psychometric properties of the tool with Australians with chronic pain was essential. Data sources: Participants (n=67) completed a survey consisting of four tools: FIPS, the Connor Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS SSS). Discussion: Psychometric characteristics of FIPS were consistent with previous studies, indicating that the tool can be used reliably to measure the impact of chronic pain on the family in Australia. Conclusion: The FIPS is a reliable tool for predicting the impact of chronic pain on the family and for use with an Australian population. Implications for practice/research: The validation of a tool such as FIPS in an Australian population adds to the current body of knowledge and extends the use of the tool. Such validation supports its reliability and stability across populations and provides Australian healthcare workers with a valid tool to measure the impact of pain on the family.