Validation of the Brazilian Moral Distress Scale in Nurses

Abstract

Background and PurposeTo determine the psychometric properties of the Brazilian Moral Distress Scale in Nurses (MDSN-BR).DesignIn this methodological, cross-sectional study, the criterion, content, and construct validation stages were presented.MethodA 57-item questionnaire was applied to 1,227 brazilian nurses through an online form. The exploratory factor analyses revealed significant conceptual relations among its items in six constructs, expressing the consistency of the scale.ResultsThe validated version of the instrument consists of six constructs and 49 items—Cronbach's alpha .980 (instrument) and of constructs: (a) (.942) Acknowledgment, power, and professional identity; (b) (.961) Safe and qualified care; (c) (.924) Defense of values and rights; (d) (.944) Work conditions; (e) (.933) Ethical infractions; (f) (.914) Work teams.ConclusionThe results provide evidence supporting the reliability and trustworthiness of the scale in the selected population.