Psychometric validation of the Caregiver Preparedness Scale in family caregivers of patients with coronary heart disease

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Caregiver Preparedness Scale (CPS) in Italian informal caregivers of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods and results: A secondary analysis was conducted using baseline data from the HEARTS-IN-DYADS study. A total of 155 informal caregivers (mean age = 54.1 years, 80% female) completed the CPS and additional validated measures assessing anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire), mutuality (Mutuality Scale), and caregiver self-efficacy (Caregiver Self-efficacy in Contributing to Self-Care Scale). Psychometric evaluation included both classical test theory and item response theory approaches. The CPS demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Omega = 0.94) and a unidimensional factor structure with strong model fit. Item response theory analysis showed high item discrimination and well-spread threshold parameters. One item-related to emergency preparedness-exhibited lower discrimination and information but remained acceptable. Minor violations of local independence were observed in two item pairs, though these are unlikely to affect overall validity. Construct validity was supported by moderate-to-strong correlations with mutuality and self-efficacy and a weak but significant negative correlation with anxiety. Conclusion: The CPS is a valid and reliable scale for assessing caregiver preparedness in CHD. Its application may facilitate caregiver assessment and inform supportive interventions. Future studies should explore its responsiveness over time and applicability across diverse caregiving contexts.