Translation of the Involvement Matrix tool into Brazilian Portuguese

Abstract

Introduction: Patient and public involvement brings numerous benefits to research; however, there are challenges to its implementation, such as the lack of tools to guide participant engagement in research involving them. The Involvement Matrix (IM) is a tool that facilitates dialogue about the role that research participants want to play in research projects, promoting a more active involvement of the public. Objective: To translate the IM materials into Brazilian Portuguese aiming to facilitate their use and guide researchers. Methods: Authorization was sought from the authors of the original instrument to translate it into Brazilian Portuguese. Subsequently, the translated material underwent a process of back-translation. The resulting version was checked by the original IM authors, ensuring semantic and content accuracy. Results: The Involvement Matrix (IM) was translated into Portuguese and then back-translated into English. The translating researchers discussed the translated version with the IM authors, with minimal adjustments needed in the back-translation, and no changes made to the Portuguese version. After the approval of the final Brazilian Portuguese version, the translated tools were made available, including a Practical Guide, a Word Version, a Checklist, a Fact Sheet, an Overview with Examples, and an Animated Video with Brazilian Portuguese subtitles. Conclusion: The various IM materials are adequately translated and freely available for use in Brazil. It is a valuable tool to guide public and patient involvement in research.