Towards the validation of the SUSESO ISTAS 21 short version in workers of public hospitals

Abstract

Workers represent half of the world’s population, so investing in public health policies aimed at them has enormous importance. The World Health Organization (WHO) urges member states to generate assessable occupational health plans that promote their wellbeing. The study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of ISTAS-SUSESO 21 short version (20 items), which is an instrument for assessing psychosocial risk developed for Chile. We performed reliability analysis, confirmatory factor analysis using structural equation model and convergent validity analysis with the DASS21 Scale (Depression, Anxiety and Stress) using a sample of 341 hospital employees in the region of Maule (Chile). Overall reliability is adequate, reaffirming previous reports. Regarding validity, four of five dimensions of the short version does not reach adequate psychometric values, and theorized factorial structure is not confirmed. We found support for convergent validity with DASS 21, and discussed the psychometric and its possible uses.