Development of the SABICS to Record Nurse-child Interactions

Methods: The SABICS was developed primarily from observation of video recorded interactions; and refined through an iterative process of applying the scheme to new data sets. Its practical applicability was assessed via implementation of the scheme on specialised behavioural coding software for 55 nurse-child interactions. Its capability of recording and displaying complex behavioural interactions was evaluated through visual display. Cohen's Kappa was used to calculate inter- and intra-coder reliability. Discriminant validity was assessed applying logistic regression with successful/unsuccessful application as dependent variable. Results: The SABICS contains 48 codes. Fifty-five nurse-child interactions were successfully coded through administering the scheme on The Observer XT8.0 system. Examples of coded behaviours were illustrated in an event log format. Two visualization results of interaction patterns demonstrated the scheme's capability of capturing complex interaction processes. Reliability using Cohen's Kappa was 0.66 (inter-coder) and 0.88 and 0.78 (two intra-coders). The frequency of some nurse behaviours, such as ‘instruction' (OR = 1.32, p = .027) and ‘praise' (OR = 2.04, p = .027), were able to predict the probability of a child receiving the fluoride varnish application. Conclusions: The SABICS is a unique system to record interactions between dental nurses and 3-5 year old children. It is capable of recording and displaying complex nurse-child interactive behaviours. It is easily administered and demonstrates satisfactory inter- and intra-coder reliability and some evidence of validity. Acknowledgement: Funded by the Scottish Government.