Description
The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) is an assessment tool designed to measure the functional abilities and disabilities of children and adolescents. It evaluates activities and participation across various domains, such as mobility, communication, and social relationships. The PEDI-CAT is adaptive, meaning it adjusts to the user’s responses, providing more accurate estimates of the child’s functional status.
Data Analysis and Use
Data analysis from the PEDI-CAT may include:
Scoring: Participants’ responses are collected to generate scores that reflect their functional abilities. Scores may vary across different assessment domains.
Descriptive Statistics: Calculation of means and standard deviations to assess the overall functional status of a population.
Correlation: Examination of the relationship between PEDI-CAT scores and other factors, such as age, gender, or severity of disability.
Comparative Analysis: Comparisons between different groups (e.g., children with disabilities vs. those without) to understand differences in functional abilities.
Objective
The objective of the PEDI-CAT is to provide a detailed assessment of the functional abilities of children and adolescents to guide therapeutic interventions and support rehabilitation. It aims to identify areas that require intervention and to support children’s participation in daily life.
Calibration
Calibration of the PEDI-CAT involves the process of adjusting the tool for use in different populations. This is achieved through:
Cross-Cultural Studies: The scale is tested in various cultural environments to ensure appropriateness and accuracy.
Reliability Analysis: Techniques such as Cronbach’s alpha are used to ensure that the questions are consistent and reliably measure functional abilities.
Validity Testing: It is checked whether the scale reflects the actual experiences of participants regarding their functional abilities.
References
Haley, S. M., et al. (2010). Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT): Development and Initial Validation. Pediatric Rehabilitation, 13(2), 105-113.
Duncan, P. W., et al. (2002). Functional Independence Measure: A Critical Review of the Literature. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 83(1), S96-S102.