Development and Assessment of a Scale Addressing Communication Needs of Patients With Laryngectomies

Abstract

This article deals with the development and assessment of the Self-Evaluation of Communication Experiences After Laryngectomy (SECEL), a 35-item scale developed to address the communication needs of patients with laryngectomies. In the initial stages of development of SECEL, 431 patients with laryngectomies participated. Scale development, factor structure, and data reduction are discussed. Statistical analyses revealed three factors representing General, Environment, and Attitude Subscales. The final version of the SECEL was administered to another 102 patients with laryngectomies to determine validity and reliability measurements. The scale provides a useful measure of adjustment related to communication experiences of patients with laryngectomies.