Knowledge and perception of patients towards informed consent in surgical procedures at Rwanda military hospital

Abstract

Background: Many patients do not fully understand their health diagnosis, treatment and possible risks because of limited knowledge, personal stress and cultural beliefs. Nevertheless, lack of patient’s knowledge on surgical informed consent increase the likelihood of a patient safety incident, patient anxiety and generally result in postoperative patient dissatisfaction Aim: To assess patient’s knowledge and perception towards informed consent for surgical procedures in the Rwanda military hospital. Methodology: It was a descriptive correlation study that was conducted in the Rwanda military hospital. Using Probability Stratified sampling technique; a sample of 147 surgical patients was recruited. Data was collected using closed ended interview schedule. A panel of experts namely research supervisor and surgical professionals was used to evaluate the validity of the modified instrument. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (correlation, regression analysis and chi-square test). Result: The sample size was 147 and the response rate was 100%. Eighty three per cent (83%) had low knowledge, (12%) had moderate knowledge and (5%) of the patients had high level of knowledge. Twenty three per cent (23%) had low perception ;( 50%) had moderate perception and (31%) of the patients had high level of perception towards informed consent for surgical procedures. There is a significant weak positive correlation between patient’s knowledge and perception of patients towards informed consent for surgical procedures [(r = .487), (-1≤ r ≤1), p=.00)].However there is a significant association between the patient level of education, occupation and knowledge or perception towards informed consent for surgical procedures. Conclusion: This study revealed that the patient’s knowledge towards informed consent for surgical procedures is limited and their perception towards informed consent is poor. Moreover the relationship between patient’s knowledge and perception towards informed consent was established whereby as the patients with high level of education had a positive perception towards informed consent