Development and testing of a new instrument to measure fluid intake, output, and urinary symptoms: the questionnaire-based voiding diary

• Published in: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology 2008-05, Vol.198 (5), p.559.e1-559.e7
• Main Authors: Arya, Lily A., MD, MS, Banks, Caroline, BA, Gopal, Manish, MD, Northington, Gina M., MD, PhD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Biological and medical sciences; Drinking; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Fecal Incontinence - epidemiology; Female; fluid intake; Gynecology. Andrology. Obstetrics; Humans; Medical sciences; Obstetrics and Gynecology; questionnaire; Surveys and Questionnaires; Urinary Bladder, Overactive - epidemiology; Urinary Incontinence, Stress - epidemiology; urinary output; urinary symptom; Urination Disorders - epidemiology; Uterine Prolapse - epidemiology; voiding diary
• ISSN: 0002-9378; 1097-6868
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2008.01.049

Objective The purpose of this study was to develop a validated self-administered questionnaire to measure fluid intake, output, behavior, and urinary symptoms. Study Design Factor analysis identified 4 subscales in the new questionnaire. Ninety-two women completed the questionnaire, comprised of a 48-hour voiding diary and the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptom-Scored form. The questionnaire was readministered after a 2-week period with no change in treatment and 2-3 months later after treatment of urinary symptoms. Results Correlation of items of the questionnaire with the 48-hour voiding diary in the 4 subscales was high ( r = 0.55, 0.74. 0.68, and 0.47; P < .01). Subscale scores also correlated with the Bristol Lower Urinary Tract Symptom score ( r = 0.68 and =0.87; P < .001). Comparisons of scores before and after treatment showed the ability of the questionnaire to respond to change. Conclusion The new questionnaire is a valid and reliable means to assess fluid intake, output, behavior, and urinary symptoms.