Table 4 Full items presented for psychometric testing

1

I regularly think about how I might change things to better manage the consequences of stroke

2

I cannot rely solely on others to help me manage the consequences of stroke

3

Whatever I do, I will not improve my condition (r)

4

When things do not go well with my stroke, it is hard to stay positive (r)

5

I always follow professional advice about my health, to the letter (r)

6

General self-care is important to me to stay as healthy as possible

7

There is little point in trying new ways of managing the consequences of stroke, as it will not change my condition (r)

8

I should make most of the decisions about how my stroke is managed

9

It is hard to be motivated to seek out solutions to problems relating to stroke (r)

10

It is difficult to stay motivated to do tasks or strategies important to my recovery (r)

11

My condition would improve if I received more professional help (r)

12

It is not up to me to decide what the best ways to manage my stroke are (r)

13

I cannot alter what my healthcare professionals decide to do about my stroke (r)

14

Treatment or therapy regimes do not take over my life

15

I apply professional advice so it is relevant to my situation

16

I plan my day so I can get things done without being tired

17

I talk about any medication I am prescribed with healthcare professionals

18

I find answers to problems about stroke without seeking professional advice

19

I try different ways of doing things, until I find out what works for my health

20

I know how to get help if I am concerned about my condition

21

The lifestyle choices that affect my health (for example, smoking, diet, alcohol, etc.) have changed since having a stroke

22

I am concerned that the things I do to manage stroke, may cause harm if not guided by health care professionals (r)

23

I feel confident at discussing any advice I don’t understand with Doctors

24

I find it difficult to tell health care professionals what I want or need (r)

25

I always ask health care professionals to explain why I should follow their advice

26

Constant professional advice would help me to manage my stroke (r)

27

I am confident that health care professionals can answer my questions

28

Following advice from health care professionals is the only way I will manage stroke (r)

29

I work out ways of managing my health following stroke together with health care professionals

30

The physical effects of stroke mean that I cannot manage my health as I would like (r)

31

My problems with communication mean that I cannot manage my health as I would like (r)

32

The effects of stroke mean that I cannot control any aspect of my recovery and health

33

The effects of stroke mean that I cannot manage my recovery and health (r)

34

I am not sure what signs or symptoms might mean my health is changing (r)

35

I feel confident at getting the information I need from health care professionals

36

My efforts to manage the consequences of stroke turn out how I like

37

I am able to control my general health

38

The efforts I take to manage my health have a positive effect

39

I manage things related to stroke as well as other people with stroke

40

I have useful information or advice to give to others regarding managing stroke

41

I am reliant upon others to help me do things important to my health and well-being (this might for example, involve attending appointments, shopping for food, social activities) (r)

42

I feel comfortable asking friends to help me do things important to my health

43

I feel confident asking family members to help me do things important to my health

44

Ideas and things that work for other people with stroke are helpful to my recovery