The modified Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form: a modified response format and rational scoring rules

J. L. Sharp, Karla Gough, M. C. Pascoe, A. Drosdowsky, V. T. Chang, P. Schofield

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale Short Form (MSAS-SF) is a widely used symptom assessment instrument. Patients who self-complete the MSAS-SF have difficulty following the two-part response format, resulting in incorrectly completed responses. We describe modifications to the response format to improve useability, and rational scoring rules for incorrectly completed items. Methods: The modified MSAS-SF was completed by 311 women in our Peer and Nurse support Trial to Assist women in Gynaecological Oncology; the PeNTAGOn study. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise completion of the modified MSAS-SF, and provide symptom statistics before and after applying the rational scoring rules. Spearman’s correlations with the Functional Assessment for Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were assessed. Results: Correct completion of the modified MSAS-SF items ranged from 91.5 to 98.7%. The rational scoring rules increased the percentage of useable responses on average 4% across all symptoms. MSAS-SF item statistics were similar with and without the scoring rules. The pattern of correlations with FACT-G and HADS was compatible with prior research. Conclusion: The modified MSAS-SF was useable for self-completion and responses demonstrated validity. The rational scoring rules can minimise loss of data from incorrectly completed responses. Further investigation is recommended.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1903-1910
Number of pages8
JournalQuality of Life Research
Volume27
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Gynaecological cancer
  • Psychological distress
  • Quality of life
  • Symptom assessment

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