557 Standardized Post-Endoscopy Report Card Improves Inpatient Post-Endoscopy Knowledge Translation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There is limited literature reviewing the utility and validity of a post-endoscopy report card in helping to better facilitate post-endoscopy recall and patient satisfaction. Augmenting verbal instructions with written ones has been shown to improve patient comprehension and compliance. The aim of this QI initiative was to improve recall of endoscopy results post-endoscopy via the use of a written endoscopy report card (WR) for patients, augmented to the current standard of care which involves a standard verbal report (VR). We evaluated the effect of providing a WR to patients before discharge, focusing on recall of endoscopic findings, physician recommendations, follow-up and overall satisfaction. Our goal was to increase patient recall of inpatient endoscopy results and follow up plans by 50% over a 6-month period at a tertiary hospital. METHODS: A prospective single-center trial. Between February and May 2019, 9 patients were enrolled in the standard of care arm, consisting of VR post-procedure. 21 patients underwent the intervention receiving the standard VR followed by receipt of a WR. Patients who met inclusion criteria were given the WR prior to discharge. This included patients age3 18 years admitted to hospital for less than 2 weeks who underwent endoscopy in a non-ICU setting during admission. All patients received a standardized telephone survey containing questions about patient recall and satisfaction 5-10 days following discharge. Baseline characteristics of the two study groups were compared by using X2 tests. Results were calculated using the Pearson Chi-Square Test and the Student T-test for patient satisfaction utilizing the Likert Scale. RESULTS: 81% of patients in intervention group (17/21) retained WR at the time of telephone survey. Receipt of a WR improved recall of findings (P < 0.001), recall of medications (P < 0.001), recall for clinic follow-up (P = 0.006) and for recall for follow-up (P = 0.008). Satisfaction was high for all patients but was significantly improved by the receipt and retention of report (P < 0.001). Study limitations include the small sample size, and exclusion of patients who did not speak English. CONCLUSION: A post-endoscopy report card given to patients prior to discharge may improve recall of results, prescribed medications and overall satisfaction with procedures. This inexpensive and safe intervention should be routinely adopted into the standard of care.