Comparison of Understanding and Recall of Informed Consent Information in Written and Video Formats: A Focus on Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of using video as an educational tool in the informed consent process for retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) on patient understanding, satisfaction, and preferences compared to traditional written consent forms. Material and Methods: A total of 114 patients scheduled for RIRS participated in this study. After reading informed consent, participants completed a questionnaire assessing their baseline knowledge about the RIRS procedure. They then watched an educational video about the procedure and completed a post-video questionnaire to assess changes in knowledge and preferences between written and video-based informed consent. Results: The results demonstrated that incorporating a video into the informed consent process led to significant improvements in patients’ knowledge about the RIRS procedure (p<0.001). A majority of participants (94.5%) found the video presentation to be more helpful than the written consent form and preferred it over the traditional method. Additionally, the use of video was associated with increased confidence in making informed decisions about the procedure. The majority of participants found the video to be easily accessible and comprehensible, which contributed to their overall satisfaction. Conclusion: Video-enhanced informed consent process can be a valuable addition to the standard informed consent process in clinical practice. By providing easily accessible and comprehensible information, healthcare providers can better meet patients’ needs and improve the overall quality of care. This approach may lead to better patient outcomes, increased trust in healthcare providers, and a more patient-centered approach to medical care.