Practicality, utility and face-validity of the dynamic support database

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the clinical perspective of the practicality, utility and face-validity of the dynamic support database (DSD) Red, Amber, Green (RAG) rating support tool within adult learning disabilities services in a North West NHS Foundation Trust. The aim of the current project is to evaluate the practicality, utility and face-validity of the DSD RAG rating support tool, as reported by clinicians who have been employing it.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods design was utilised by asking clinicians to complete a questionnaire in relation to the DSD Support Tool. Questionnaires were distributed across three community learning disability teams within the North West. A total of 50 clinicians completed the questionnaire which included rated responses for quantitative analysis and free-text comments for qualitative analysis.

Findings

Positive ratings given by clinicians suggested good practicality, utility and face-validity in relation to the tool. Analysis of the free-text comments suggested that the tool supported clinical judgement in a standardised way and helped discussions with commissioners. Feedback also provided insights into how the DSD support tool could be improved.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigation would be required to yield higher numbers of participation across NHS Trusts to add reliability to the present findings.

Originality/value

The DSD support tool has been used within the NHS Foundation Trust for the last 12 months however the practicality, utility and face-validity of the tool had not been explored from the clinician perspective.

Citation

Mottershead, T. and Woodrow, C. (2019), "Practicality, utility and face-validity of the dynamic support database", Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 13 No. 5, pp. 228-236. https://doi.org/10.1108/AMHID-04-2019-0009