[Principles and methods of good practice for the translation process for instruments of nursing research and nursing practice]

Abstract

Cross-cultural, valid and reliable instruments are increasingly used in nursing, yet their attainment is labour-intensive. The translation of valid instruments into another language and cultural context is the most common method used for generating cross-cultural instruments. This approach is challenging since the development of culturally equivalent translated instruments demands familiarity with basic requirements of linguistic adaptation, cultural concepts and psychometric changes inherent in the translation process. However, the quality of data derived from translated instruments relies on the accuracy of the translation process applied. The aim of this article is to illustrate the different methods for translation, as well as to present an example and principles of good practice regarding this subject.