Evaluation of a method to improve the consent process: improved data retention with stagnant comprehension.
Our study explored whether a simple, cost-effective intervention directed only at physicians could improve patient comprehension with informed consent process. In our medical university oncology clinic, we performed a baseline survey on 69 patients receiving new therapy, testing for comprehension of the important components of the informed consent process. We then instituted a three-part intervention, including (1) physician education, (2) an available toxicity list, and (3) a checklist to ensure physician compliance. We repeated the survey on 54 consecutive patients who consented for treatment, evaluating four outcomes. The intervention produced a 38 % improvement in patients' listing of toxicities (p = 0.0003) and no significant improvements in the understanding of therapeutic goals, likelihood of achieving those goals, and confidence in their understanding of treatment. Our three-part intervention, directed solely at physicians, improved patients' recall of toxicity data but did not influence the other important areas of patient comprehension within the informed consent process.
Division of Hematology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
Pranitha
P
Naini
James
J
Lewis
Kothanur
K
Rajanna
Alva Bowen
AB
Weir
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002983:Clinical Competence; D032882:Comprehension; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination; D007258:Informed Consent; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D010361:Patients / Q000523:psychology*; D010819:Physician's Role