Search

This guidance summarises the three main, evidence-based approaches that can be used for the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the SPICTTM into different languages and for diverse healthcare systems internationally. Select the method which best fits your situation and resources.

  • A multi-disciplinary team approach and clear process recording are essential. People start working on a translation with a small group of staff with experience of palliative care. 
  • An initial translation is shared with a wider group for peer review. 
  • After further edits, the translation is tried out by interested staff in their clinics or wards.
  • It is best for groups from the same country/language group to work together to develop the best possible translation.
  • A final version can be shared with the SPICT international community through the website with the authors details. 
  • If your translation is developed using a reliable and clear process, it may be possible to put it into the standard SPICT format and/or upload it as a pdf to a page for your country/ language. Please contact us about this.


Examples of translations are available on our Publications page.
Download Translating & Adapting SPICT April 2018 (pdf)

World Health Organisation: Process of translation and adaptation of instruments.

Beaton DE et al: Guidelines for the process of cross-cultural adaptation of self-report measures.
Mohler P et al: TRAPD Team Translation Model – Guidelines for Best Practice in Cross-Cultural Surveys. 

All methods incorporate 3 phases and 7 structured steps:-

Phase I

Step 1: TranslationStep 2:
Expert review

Phase II

Step 3:
Back-translation and revision
Step 4:
Pre-testing (e.g. standardized case vignettes, or examples from small clinical practice tests)

Phase III

Step 5:
Final version
Step 6:
Process appraisal and documentation
Step 7:
Implementation and review