Application of Standard Informed Consent Procedure Amongst Practicing Anesthetists in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Karachi

Application of Standard Informed Consent Procedure Amongst Practicing Anesthetists in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Karachi
Asif Hassan, Mahendar Wanwari, Adeel ur Rehman, Tarique Aziz, Kashif Naeem, Fahad
Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research, 4 August 2024
Abstract
Background
Informed consent is a critical component of anesthesia practice, ensuring patient autonomy and safety. However, variability in the application of consent procedures among anesthetists may impact patient understanding and care quality.
Objective
To evaluate the application of standard informed consent procedures among practicing anesthetists in tertiary care hospitals in Karachi.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 15, 2021, to August 14, 2021, across five tertiary care hospitals in Karachi. A total of 112 anesthetists, including consultants and residents with at least two years of experience, were recruited through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a custom-made 16-item questionnaire. Responses were scored from 0 to 64, with scores ≥32 considered acceptable. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests for comparisons.
Results
The mean age of participants was 34.04 ± 8.15 years, with 5.43 ± 5.9 years of experience. Compliance with consent standards was 99.11%, with 111 out of 112 participants scoring ≥32. No significant differences were observed across age, gender, or qualification (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
Anesthetists in Karachi showed high adherence to informed consent standards, though enhancements in risk disclosure are recommended to further improve patient care.