Development and validation of the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel skin tear data collection tool

Abstract

OBJECTIVE : Numerous studies have examined the epidemiology of skin tears; however, inconsistent definitions, classification systems, and data collection methods have highlighted the need for a validated and standardized tool. The primary objective of this study was to validate a data collection tool for skin tears. A secondary aim was to provide a freely accessible tool for health care providers or researchers to collect consistent and reliable data on skin tears. METHODS : The development of the tool was guided by the 2018 International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP) Best Practice Recommendations for the prevention, assessment, and management of skin tears in aged skin. Between June and October 2024, a multimethod validation process was undertaken. Content validity ratio and content validity index calculations were used to quantify content validity, supported by qualitative feedback from 15 experts to assess face validity and provide suggestions for refinement. RESULTS : The final tool consists of 22 questions addressing a patient’s demographics, clinical features of the skin tear, associated risk factors, and contextual data. The content validity index was calculated at 0.72, indicating an acceptable level of content validity. International experts reached consensus following a 2-round qualitative review, resulting in subsequent adjustments to the tool. CONCLUSIONS : The ISTAP DC-Tool was developed based on evidence-informed recommendations and validated by an international panel of experts. Its implementation will support health care providers and researchers in gathering standardized epidemiological data contributing to clinical practice improvements, quality initiatives, and further research in skin tear prevention and management.