Researchers can also draw upon their
identification to inform the development of
tools to measure the concept.
The existence of vulnerability in
perioperative practice can be witnessed
and observed by practitioners and the
physical manifestations of anxiety can
be measured by clinical monitoring.
Additionally several instruments have been
developed and validated that measure
the physical and psychological effects
of anxiety experienced by vulnerable
individuals and therefore confirm
its existence.
The hospital anxiety and depression scale
(HADS) is an instrument considered valid in
the identification of anxiety and depression
in hospital patients and has been used
in practice for several years (Zigmond &
Snaith 1983). The scale is composed of
anxiety and depression related statements
scored from 0 to 21. The Spielberger State
Anxiety Inventory (SAI) is another reliable
20 item self report questionnaire relating
to anxiety measurement (Spielberger et al
1983). The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
assesses anxiety in clinical and research
settings; it is composed of a four point likert
scale and a selection of descriptors (Eric et
al 2008).