Translation, validation and psychometric properties of the Albanian version of the Nurses Professional Competence Scale Short form

Abstract Background and aim of the work: The primary aim of this study was the translation and psychometric validation of the Albanian Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short Form for further application in Albanian healthcare settings. This instrument can be utilised to assess professional nursing competencies. Methods: A convenience sample (n=342) was recruited, including registered nurses, registered midwives and nursing head nurses. A multiphase design was developed to establish the Albanian Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short Form and comprised (1) cultural and linguistic validation, (2) content and face validity, and (3) construct validity. Results: The Albanian Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short Form showed adequate content validity. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the Albanian Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short Form’s six-factor structure and explained the data collection. Conclusions: The Albanian Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short Form presented evidence of validity and reliability in measuring four professional competencies. Having an appropriate scale in Albanian for professional competence self-assessment by nurses constitutes an essential step in developing nursing education in the country.