Evaluation of Informed Consent Practice for Elective Surgeries in Zagazig University Hospitals: An Interventional Study

Abstract

Background: The informed consent is an important patient's right, has to be considered by physicians. The concept of consent arises from the ethical principle of patient autonomy and basic human rights. Objectives: To assess the informed consent practice for elective surgeries then design a training program to improve the practice and assess the effectiveness of the program. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted by102 medical staffs that were responsible for informed consent practice, in ophthalmic department where cataract surgery is provided, in general surgery department, and in obstetric department where elective cesarean section is provided divided into two groups experimental and control groups in three stages, pre and post intervention over a period of 14 months from January 2015 to February 2016 by using a structured observation checklist. Results: Chi-square analysis to the following variables gender, job title, experience, timing of informed consent did not show significant relationship between the experimental and control groups. However, by comparing them in the dimensions of the informed consent practice there were statistically significant in test group after intervention (p < 0.0001). And also the percentage of those with s practical and legal problems decreased in test group in comparison to control group after intervention. Conclusions: Interventional program for health care providers has been improved the practice of informed consent.