How should vaccine hesitancy be measured in healthcare workers? A systematic review of the measurement properties of validated tools

The use of validated tools to assess vaccine hesitancy is essential for designing strategies to improve vaccine uptake among healthcare workers (HCWs). This systematic review identified and evaluated tools measuring knowledge, attitudes, practices, vaccine intentions, and vaccine hesitancy in HCWs. Searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and JBI (PROSPERO: CRD42020212252). The methodological quality of the instruments was determined using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) methodology. Of 11,580 articles screened, 33 studies were included, identifying 32 measurement tools related to vaccines recommended for HCWs, including influenza, HPV, HBV, and pertussis. The King’s Nurses Influenza Vaccination Questionnaire was the most frequently used and demonstrated reliable properties. Two other validated questionnaires showed adequate measurement properties. No validated tool was identified to comprehensively assess vaccine hesitancy across all HCW-recommended vaccines, limiting instrument applicability for broad implementation in healthcare settings.