The Dutch Essentials of Magnetism II; an adapted instrument for Correctional Nurses

Abstract

Aim and Research questions: Develop a reliable and valid tool to measure the essentials of the Dutch correctional nurses’ (CN) work environment. What adaptations to the Dutch Essentials of Magnetism II (D-EOM-II) are needed, and what are the psychometric properties of this new tool? Background: Dutch CN balance the demands of two ministries, Justice and Healthcare. A shortage of CN is forecasted, an attractive and healthy work environment (HWE) can help to reduce this shortage. HWE leads to more job satisfaction, productivity and quality of care. The essential characteristics of a HWE are known for hospitals, but not for CN environment. Method: A Delphi-survey, consisting of three phases and interim analyses, was performed. Experienced CN (n1=34, n2=16, n3=34) were invited to describe missing characteristics, and to judge existing and adapted items. Additionally, a panel of experts (n = 6) was consulted to advise on the adjustments made. Content validity, floor and ceiling response, correlations and Cronbach's alpha were calculated on item and (sub) scale level. Results: The adapted questionnaire consists of 51 items, including a new sub-scale ‘secure environment'. Psychometric tests showed a content validity of 0.82 (subscales 0.73-0.93) and a Cronbach's alpha of 0.93 (subscales 0.60-0.93). Item-total correlations ranged from 0.33 to 0.89 and subscale correlations ranged from 0.16 to 0.48. Conclusions and recommendations: D-EOM-II, version CN was successfully adjusted with acceptable reliability and validity. This questionnaire can be useful to distinguish areas where changes are needed to create a healthy and attractive correctional work environment, and substantially contribute to retain qualified CN. To confirm reliability and validity, additional psychometric tests are recommended.