Validity Evaluation of a Classification for Identifying a Dental Hygiene Diagnosis based on Dental Hygiene Care Process

Objective: In this study, we aimed to establish the concept of dental hygiene diagnosis, develop a standardized list, and confirm its validity. Methods: We performed qualitative content analysis to derive a list of dental hygiene diagnoses. Four researchers reviewed the diagnoses, definitions, definitional characteristics, risk factors, domains, and classes. To evaluate the validity of our approach, we conducted two rounds of Delphi surveys from January to August 2024 with ten dental hygiene professors. Results: We identified 42 dental hygiene diagnostic items and categorized them into four domains, namely, body structure, physical and psychological functions, activities and participation, and environmental factors; and 15 classes, covering areas such as oral hard tissue and periodontal tissue health, trauma, anxiety, oral habits, infections, and oral health behaviors. The final content validity index for the domains, classes, and items was 0.90 or higher, and the content validity ratio was ≥0.80. Conclusions: In this study, we successfully defined the concept of dental hygiene diagnosis, developed a standardized list through qualitative analysis, and validated it through expert consensus. The resulting classification provides a foundation for systematic practice and research on dental hygiene.