I J Langdon1, R Hardin, I D Learmonth. 1. University Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Avon Orthopaedic Centre, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK. Ilana.Langdon@ruh-bath.swest.nhs.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To ascertain whether a written information sheet is acceptable to patients and improves recall of the consent interview. DESIGN: Prospective randomised controlled study using questionnaires, comparing a group of patients given information in a written sheet with appropriate explanation to a group given verbal information alone. SETTING: A specialist orthopaedic surgery unit. PATIENTS: The test group was 126 patients undergoing revision or primary total hip arthroplasty; 65 patients were given information verbally, 61 patients were given written information. OUTCOME MEASURE: Patients' recall of information given, tested with a questionnaire completed on admission (mean of 18 days later). RESULTS: The patients receiving written information scored significantly higher (48% correct answers) than the patients receiving verbal information (38% correct answers). CONCLUSIONS: Written information sheets contribute to the process of informed consent. As patients' recall of information is generally poor, the sheets may also be useful medicolegally, as a permanent record of what was discussed.
RCT Entities:
OBJECTIVE: To ascertain whether a written information sheet is acceptable to patients and improves recall of the consent interview. DESIGN: Prospective randomised controlled study using questionnaires, comparing a group of patients given information in a written sheet with appropriate explanation to a group given verbal information alone. SETTING: A specialist orthopaedic surgery unit. PATIENTS: The test group was 126 patients undergoing revision or primary total hip arthroplasty; 65 patients were given information verbally, 61 patients were given written information. OUTCOME MEASURE: Patients' recall of information given, tested with a questionnaire completed on admission (mean of 18 days later). RESULTS: The patients receiving written information scored significantly higher (48% correct answers) than the patients receiving verbal information (38% correct answers). CONCLUSIONS: Written information sheets contribute to the process of informed consent. As patients' recall of information is generally poor, the sheets may also be useful medicolegally, as a permanent record of what was discussed.
Authors: Wouter K G Leclercq; Bram J Keulers; Marc R M Scheltinga; Paul H M Spauwen; Gert-Jan van der Wilt Journal: World J Surg Date: 2010-07 Impact factor: 3.352
Authors: Matthew E Falagas; Patrick D Akrivos; Vangelis G Alexiou; Vasilios Saridakis; Theofanis Moutos; George Peppas; Barbara K Kondilis Journal: PLoS One Date: 2009-11-26 Impact factor: 3.240