Fatigue in Children with Cancer: Reliability and Validity of the Persian Version of Child, Parent, and Staff Fatigue Scale

Abstract

The fatigue is reported as the most common and annoying symptom in patients with cancer, timely diagnosis, and treatment can significantly influence the treatment and rehabilitation. It is crucial to have an appropriate tool to accurately assess fatigue status. Objectives: Our purpose was to assess psychometric properties of the Persian versions of fatigue scale by Original Scales from the viewpoint of children with cancer (Child Fatigue Scale [CFS]-24 h), their parents (Parent Fatigue Scale [PFS]-24 h), and staff (Staff Fatigue Scale FSF-24 h). Methods: Convenience sampling of the participants was conducted 100, including children with cancer within the age range of 7-12 years, their parents, and caregivers in medical staff. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were evaluated using intraclass correlation (ICC) and Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Dimensionality was determined by factor analysis. The patients' fatigue was also assessed through visual analog scale-fatigue (VAS-F). Results: Test-retest (ICCCFS= 0.71, ICCPSF= 0.82, and ICCSFS= 0.78) was acceptable with a high level of internal consistency (CFS= 0.80, PFS= 0.83, and SFS= 0.84). Factor analysis identified three, five, and two components for the CFS, PFS, and Staff Fatigue Scale (SFS), respectively. There was moderate correlation between CFS and VAS-F. Conclusions: Results of the current study indicated that CFS in children with cancer, PFS in their parents, and SFS in medical staff were valid and reliable instruments to assess fatigue from the viewpoint of children with cancer along with their parents and medical staff.