The reliability of self-report of behaviours associated with recurrent urinary tract infection.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the comparability of two forms of self-report of behaviours associated with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), using questionnaire estimations and diary recordings.


METHODS
A group of 26 women (mean age 36.5 years, SD 9.57) with recurrent UTI and a group of 25 comparison women (mean age 36.7 years, SD 8.82) were recruited. Behavioural factors were measured by questionnaire and diary-keeping.


RESULTS
Questionnaire estimations appeared to be reliable for some behaviours associated with UTI. Significant errors in estimating fluid intake were noted.


CONCLUSIONS
For research and clinical purposes, estimations of fluid intake using immediate self-report (e.g. questionnaires) should not be assumed to be reliable indications of true consumption. Suggestions are made for future research.
Department of Clinical Psychology, Withington Hospital, Manchester, UK.
J
J
Hunt
G
G
Waller
D000328:Adult; D004327:Drinking Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008499:Medical Records; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012648:Self Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*