Interrater reliability and practicability of the German version of the Ghent Global Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Categorization Tool

Background: Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a sequela of fecal and/or urinary incontinence with an estimated prevalence rate of 6% to 27%. To assess the severity of IAD the Ghent Global IAD Categorization Tool (GLOBIAD) was developed. A German translation of GLOBIAD (GLOBIAD-D) is available, but psychometric testing is pending. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the interrater reliability, practicability and clinical relevance of the GLOBIAD-D. Methods: A multicenter study with cross-sectional design was conducted in four health and social care facilities in Germany and Austria including patients/residents with IAD. The overall percentage of observation agreement (POA) and interrater reliability was assessed using data from 23 observations of an IAD. Practicability and clinical relevance were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Cohen’s kappa(κ), and Cramers V. Results: A high percentage of observational agreement (n = 22; POA = 68.20%) and moderate interrater reliability (n = 22; κ = 0.55; 95% CI [0.28; 0.82]) were obtained with GLOBIAD-D. Practicability and clinical relevance of GLOBIAD-D were rated as good and it was described as a simple, understandable, user-friendly, and time efficient tool. Potential for improvement was seen in image quality as well as description of category 2A. Conclusions: GLOBIAD-D shows a high overall POA and was proved to be practical and clinically relevant. Further studies are needed to make recommendations.