ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to develop the conceptual and operational definitions for the defining characteristics of each nursing diagnosis related to self-care deficits of patients with stroke and to validate these definitions with experts. METHODS: This was a methodological study. The definitions were evaluated by 32 specialists and analyzed using binomial testing. RESULTS: All the defining characteristics analyzed were statistically significant (p < .05); three indicators showed agreement at a level lower than the ideal (<0.85). CONCLUSION: The definitions achieved validity for measuring self-care deficit for bathing, toileting, dressing, and eating. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: These defining characteristics of each nursing diagnosis related to self-care deficits may enable more accurate assessment, driving relevant and individualized action plans in rehabilitation.