Psychometric properties of the English version of the Audio Processor Satisfaction Questionnaire (APSQ)

Abstract

Objective The Audio Processor Satisfaction Questionnaire (APSQ) is a standardized tool to measure a user’s satisfaction with their audio processor(s). It was first developed and validated in the German language. The purpose of the current study was to validate the English version of the APSQ. Design The 15 items of the APSQ were translated into English. Item and scale analyses assessed the quality of individual items and of the questionnaire in its entirety. Study sample Sixty-seven adults with hearing implants participated. Forty-six of them completed the questionnaire twice within 2–4 weeks. Results High mean values were obtained with total scores and with scores of the comfort, social life, and usability domains, indicating that users are generally satisfied with their audio processors. The questionnaire achieved good test-retest reliability with high internal consistency. A significant positive correlation between time since implantation and user satisfaction was found. Conclusion Results of the item and reliability analyses suggest that the English version of the APSQ is a valid and reliable tool to assess user satisfaction with their audio processor(s).