| The present study investigated whether informants (children with cystic fibrosis, parents, and physicians) differ in their report of specific medical treatment adherence behaviors. Furthermore, comparisons of reported adherence among a variety of specific treatment behaviors were examined to determine specific behaviors that may be differentially adhered to. The current study suggests reported adherence to treatment varies as a function of informant, and with respect to the specific component of the treatment regimen. Specifically, ratings of greater adherence among all informants were found for pancreatic enzymes, oral antibiotics, and airway clearance techniques. The current study found ratings of poor adherence among all informants for nutritional supplements. Contrary to study hypotheses, children and parents had discrepant reporting of specific adherence behaviors. Specifically, children reported greater levels of adherence than their parents for airway clearance and aerosol medication adherence. However, consistent with study hypotheses, physicians significantly differed from parents and children in their report of adherence behaviors by reporting lower levels of adherence than parents and children for airway clearance and aerosol antibiotic adherence. Implications for medical management and future research are discussed. In sum, this work highlights the importance of assessing different informants' reports of adherence, in order to adopt interventions targeting those treatments, and aid in the improvement of treatment success. |
