Survey Analysis of an Ambulatory Surgical Checklist for Patient Use

Abstract

Although checklists are used as tools for providers, they have not been adequately explored as tools for patients. The purpose of this study was to survey the stakeholders on the usefulness of an ambulatory surgical checklist for patients. We performed a cross-sectional study through a survey designed to include both patients and providers. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed based on responses from 35 patients and 52 providers. Overall, 94% of patients and 83% of providers thought the checklist would be beneficial for patients. In addition, 37% of providers indicated potential barriers to checklist implementation, including fear of confusing the patient, making patients doubt the care they were receiving, taking too much time, and lack of resources. Based on survey responses, the study suggests that the ambulatory surgical checklist can potentially facilitate patient education, enable more active patient participation, increase patient satisfaction, and decrease patient anxiety.