[Neuropsychiatric inventory questionnaire (NPI-Q): Spanish validation of an abridged form of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI)]

Abstract

Background: The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) is a validated clinical instrument for the evaluation of psychopathology in dementia.

Objective: To validate a brief questionnaire form of the NPI (NPI-Q) in Spanish from NPI-Q original version, intended for use in routine clinical practice.

Patients and method: We have developed a crossed validated form between NPI and NPI-Q in 120 Alzheimer's disease patients.

Results: Test-retest reliability of the NPI-Q, using Pearson correlation index was r = 0.89 for total symptom scale and r = 0.90 for distress scale. The prevalence of analogous symptom ratings differed by less than 6.7%. Convergent validity between NPI-Q and NPI, using Pearson correlation index was r = 0.879 for total symptom and r = 0.92 for distress scale.

Conclusions: The NPI-Q Spanish version offers the possibility to use a reliable and brief instrument that can be used as a screening in the evaluation of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia and associated caregiver distress. It may be suitable for use in general clinical practice and it could be used as a brief neuropsychiatric interview.