Reliability of the Nepali Version of the Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Report

A self-report measure is considered a practical alternative tool for longitudinal monitoring and for community models of disability. Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Report (SCIM-SR) was developed to measure the functional independence of the spinal cord injury (SCI) population. For the application of this questionnaire in Nepali setting, the cross-cultural adaptation and reliability of the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR were also warranted. The aim of the study was to cross-culturally adapt the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR and determine its reliability. The English version of the SCIM-SR was translated into the Nepali language with cross-cultural adaptations following the Beaton guidelines. A total of 45 community-dwelling individuals with SCI administered the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR two times, with an interval of one week. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's alpha (α) were used to assess the test-retest reliability and internal consistency, respectively. Cross-cultural equivalence was achieved between the English version and the Nepali version of the SCIM-SR. The test-retest reliability was excellent, with ICCs for the total score 0.968 (95% confidence interval 0.941–0.982), self-care subscale 0.964 (0.934–0.980), respiration and sphincter management subscale 0.941 (0.893–0.968), and mobility subscale 0.966 (0.938–0.981). The internal consistency reached an acceptable range for the total score and most of the subscales except for those of respiration and sphincter management. Cronbach's α coefficients for the total score, self-care subscale, respiration and sphincter management subscale, and mobility subscale were 0.801, 0.959, 0.506, and 0.838, respectively. The Nepali version of the SCIM-SR was cross-culturally adapted and can be used as a reliable self-report instrument to assess functional independence among the community-dwelling SCI population in Nepal.