Reliability and validity of nursing history data

People are increasingly being asked for information which they are expected to complete themselves, whether this be an application for food stamps, an income tax form, a census form, or a health history form. The information is becoming more and more complex, and is being categorized in such a way that it can be processed through a computer. Each individual brings to this experience his own unique personality and his own unique abilities in reading, writing, comprehension, and willingness or ability to recall the information requested. This wide variation in individuals affects the reliability and validity of the data. The history is the starting point for almost every episode of patient care. It is also an integral part of that body of information, the data base, that allows rendering of continuing, comprehensive, and effective care. The problem is one of maximizing the relevance, validity, and reliability of the communication, as trustworthy data, provides the basis for making sound judgments. Improving the quality of care rests upon this fundamental basis.