Development and validation of the health information needs questionnaire for families of children with cancer

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to construct and validate the health information needs of families of children with cancer in Iran. Methods: The current study used Correlation method (exploratory analysis using principal components analysis method). The statistical population of this study was a total of 729 families of cancer patients referring to Isfahan Seyyed-Al-Shohada (Omid) Hospital from April to September 2018. Based on the Cochran formula, 244 individuals were selected through purposive sampling based on which including and excluding criteria were chosen. Results: The factor analysis (principal components analysis) and Varimax rotation showed four factors, 1) access, presentation and exchange of related health information; 2) provision of cancer related information by the medical staff; 3) health and counseling facilities and services; and 4) Social, economic, and spiritual supports. Totally 56.57% of the variance of the questionnaire items was explained by theses four factors. Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients derived from the exploratory factor structure for the whole questionnaire were 0.96. Conclusion: Considering the reliability of the questionnaire, it can be used as a reliable and valid tool in the health system to identifying and meeting the information needs of the families of children with cancer.