ENT SURGEON’S PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE INFORMED CONSENT: A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: The study aims to assess the perception and attitude of ENT surgeons towards informed consent.

Materials & Methods: The study was conducted among ENT surgeons from November 2019to January 2020among 54 respondents. A cross-sectional survey was performed using astructured questionnaire. All the ENT surgeons of Nepal were identified through the Society of Otolaryngology Nepal website and an electronic copy of the questionnaire was distributed via email.

Results: Among 54 respondent, 44% of the surgeons admit that enough information is not being provided before taking consent,4% of surgeons disagreed that the possibility of death and significant disability to be included as the content of the consent. Almost 20% of the surgeon respond that they do not disclose specific information about anesthesia and the immediate postoperative period. Similarly, 14% do not disclose information on specific operative
details. The surgeon reported that 70% of their patient refused on giving consent for surgical operation. Patient fear of complication of the surgery was the reason for refusal on giving consent.33.34% suggested compulsory communication skill course for all surgeon as the ways of improving the consent process

Conclusion: The perception of the surgeon was found to be positive regarding the informed consent purpose, content, process. Surgeons admit that enough information is not being provided before taking consent.

Keywords: Attitude, Inform consent, Legal document, Perception