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Vocal Fatigue Index: Validation and Cut-off Values of the Brazilian Version.

Authors :: Zambon F
Moreti F
Ribeiro VV
Nanjundeswaran C
Behlau M
Source :: Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation [J Voice] 2022 May; Vol. 36 (3), pp. 434.e17-434.e24. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Jul 18.
Publication Year :: 2022
Abstract: Objectives: To complete the validation and to study the psychometric properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Vocal Fatigue Index (IFV).<br />Material and Methods: This is a validation study of a diagnostic instrument utilizing a cross-sectional design and phases with quasi-experimental design. The total sample was composed of 212 participants, divided into two groups: Dysphonic Group and Vocally Healthy Group. All participants answered the VFI protocol. Data analysis consisted of the following steps: exploratory factor analysis, validity analysis, reliability analysis, sensitivity analysis, receiver operating characteristic, and area under the curve analysis.<br />Results: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the VFI called Índice de Fadiga Vocal-IFV, has 17 items and four factors. The IFV is a valid, reliable and sensible instrument to measure the self-perception of vocal fatigue. The threshold values for each factor was: 4.50 for tiredness and voice impairment; 3.50 for avoidance of voice use; 1.50 for physical discomfort and 8.50 for improvement of voice symptoms with rest. The threshold value for the total score was 11.50.<br />Conclusion: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the VFI is a valid instrument to assess the self-perception of vocal fatigue, especially in dysphonic individuals.<br /> (Copyright © 2020 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)