DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znad258.724 ISSN:

618 Flexible Cystoscopy: The Differences in Patient Recall of Post Procedural Complications When Using Verbal Consent as Opposed to Written Consent

N G, O Abayomi
  • Surgery

Abstract

Aim

To analyse the efficacy of taking verbal consent for flexible cystoscopy as opposed to taking written consent and whether it affected patient recall of complications related to the procedure.

Method

Flexible cystoscopy has 3 main complications that we mention to the patients – Dysuria, Haematuria and Infection. The 3-month long study from September to November 2022 involved 40 patients who underwent flexible cystoscopy in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. 20 patients had verbal consent prior to the procedure and the other 20 had a written and signed consent form. We then asked these patients post procedure, if they recollected the 3 important complications mentioned earlier.

Results

65% of the patients who gave verbal consent and 75% of those who gave written consent recalled that dysuria could be expected post procedure. Also, 55% of the patients who had a written and signed consent recalled haematuria as a complication as compared to 40% of the patients who had verbal consent. 40% of the patients who had a written and signed consent recollected that they might have a urinary tract infection post procedure. This was 55% in the group that gave verbal consent

Conclusions

Informed consent is an important in any clinical intervention. It safeguards patient autonomy, is a legal requirement and is a central feature of the covenant relationship between the healthcare professional and the patient. Putting pen to paper increases patient recall and makes written consent the gold standard for flexible cystoscopy.

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