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Title: Measurement of patient fears about implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock: an initial evaluation of the Florida Shock Anxiety Scale. Author: Kuhl EA, Dixit NK, Walker RL, Conti JB, Sears SF. Journal: Pacing Clin Electrophysiol; 2006 Jun; 29(6):614-8. PubMed ID: 16784427. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychological distress is both a precipitant and a consequence of ICD shock. Therefore, the assessment of patient anxiety and concerns related to receiving an ICD shock may prompt appropriate psychological referrals and treatment. METHODS: The purpose of this study is to assess the initial validity and clinical utility of the Florida Shock Anxiety Scale (FSAS). Seventy-two ICD recipients completed the FSAS. RESULTS: Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure with items loading such that Factor 1 could be conceptualized as a Consequence Factor (e.g., fearing creating a scene if the device were to fire) and Factor 2 as a Trigger Factor (e.g., fearing sexual activity). Alpha coefficients suggest good reliability (Cronbach's alpha= 0.91, split-half = 0.92), and FSAS Total Score was moderately correlated (r =-0.65) with total score on the Multidimensional Fear of Death Scale. CONCLUSIONS: Two subscales, labeled consequence of shock and trigger of shock, were established via factor analysis. Collectively the FSAS demonstrates potential utility to assess shock distress and warrants additional investigation.[Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]