ABS Training & Testing

Raters

The ABS is an observational as opposed to a self-report measure. Original validation studies showed that nursing staff, physical therapists and occupational therapists can use the scale reliably and validly. At Ohio State University, the ABS is completed by the primary nurse at the end of each shift. Novak and Penrod (1993) report its use at the end of each session by therapy staff.

Observational Units

The ABS has been shown to be reliable and valid when based on therapists' 30-minute observation periods, or primary nurses' perceptions based upon an 8-hour shift (Corrigan, 1989). Ratings based on 10-minute observation periods by psychology assistants or a rehabilitation nurse have also been found to be reliable. However, serial monitoring must be done with comparable observations, as it has been found that ratings during 10-minute observation periods are not comparable to ratings based on 8-hour shifts.

Observers make a rating of one to four for each of the fourteen items. In validation, nurses and therapists were trained by sharing impressions and asking feedback during a trial-use period. Written descriptions of ratings for each item, with examples, are available from Drs. Corrigan and Bogner at Ohio State University.