Quality improvement: audio-visual tools are a valuable supplement when obtaining consent for lumbar punctures

Abstract

Neurological conditions present a challenge when obtaining consent for lumbar punctures (LPs), as patients often have -visual, hearing or cognitive impairments. The aim of this -project was to improve the quality of the consent process for LPs. Surveys of doctors and patients suggested there was scope to standardise and improve information provided during the consent process. A patient information video was -developed using online software and shown to patients using tablet -computers. Patient surveys were distributed to re-assess the quality of the process for obtaining consent. There was a -significant improvement (p=0.031) in the median response score after the video was presented to the same group of patients. The use of patient information videos -significantly improves understanding and recall of the procedure, and -satisfaction with the consent process. In conclusion, audio--visual tools are a valuable tool for standardising and -improving the process of gaining consent for LPs.