A practical approach to content validation.

Often researchers are unable to find instruments to estimate variables they want to investigate. Once the variable of interest has been defined and operationalized, demonstrating content validity is the next step in the instrument development process. It requires that experts confirm that the operational definitions created are congruent with the universe of the theoretical definition of the concept. Grounded in appropriate standards and psychometric theory, the process of content validation is explored. Helpful suggestions are provided for the development of a form, the selection of experts, and the collection and analysis of data. The guidelines and examples presented offer a set of blueprints to assist the nurse researcher with a practical approach to the content validation process.