To develop an observational assessment of the use of joint protection (JP) methods by people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Subjects with and without RA were videotaped performing a kitchen activity to identify the range of JP and non-JP methods used. Behavior codes were developed for these. Seven rheumatology occupational therapists reviewed and scored behaviors as correct, partially correct, or incorrect JP methods. Test-retest and interrater agreement studies were conducted.
The Joint Protection Behavior Assessment (JPBA) demonstrated good content validity (kappa = 0.46 to 1.00), test-retest reliability (P < 0.0001), and interobserver agreement (kappa = 0.68 to 0.88). Construct validity was supported by significant correlations with hand impairment and function variables.
The JPBA is a reliable and valid assessment of the use of JP methods by people with mild to moderate hand and upper limb joint involvement, which can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of JP education programs.