Informed consent for orthopaedic surgery: a prospective audit

Abstract

A prospective audit of 76 patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery was performed. The aim of this audit was to assess how effectively patients are consented at a busy teaching hospital, and to suggest improvements to the process. Evaluates the level of information attained by patients after giving consent and their overall satisfaction with the process by use of a questionnaire. Results demonstrated that patients were often given incomplete information about their management. Despite this, patients themselves felt that the level of information given to them was appropriate, and allowed them to make an informed decision. Suggests the use of written information sheets and Internet Web sites to supplement the provision of information to patients. These modalities will allow patients to access as much information as they desire, while avoiding any potential anxiety due to provision of excess information.