Validity and Reliability of a New Developed Digital Version of Nine Hole Peg Test

In healthcare, the Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) is considered a standard for assessing hand dexterity. A digital version of the classic Nine-Hole Peg Test - the dNHPT - has been developed that allows digital measurement of hand function. The prototype of this dNHPT was investigated in this study with test-retest and crossover design with 32 healthy adults. Pearson Correlation Coefficient and Bland-Altman diagram were used to analyze concurrent validity. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), standard error or measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change (SDC) were used to determine test-retest and interrater reliability. Our results showed a moderate concurrent validity (r = 0.592). The Bland Altman analysis showed an estimated a mean difference of -2.47 between the dNHPT in comparison with the conventional NHPT. The dNHPT demonstrated good test-retest reliability (ICC: 0.75, SEM: 0.89, SDC: 2.47) and high interrater reliability (ICC: 0.76). To conclude, the dNHPT can contribute to objectify the measurement of hand dexterity without losing its most compactness and simplicity as the most important properties of NHPT.

Automated summary

The digital version of the Nine-Hole Peg Test (dNHPT) was validated in this study, showing good test-retest and interrater reliability, as well as moderate concurrent validity.