Change In Patient’s Perception And Knowledge Regarding Anaesthetic Practice After A Preoperative Anaesthesia Clinic Visit

Abstract

Background: This survey was conducted to assess surgical patient’s perception about the role of the anesthetist in patient care and to determine any change in this perception after a visit to the preoperative clinic. Methods: Four hundred and eighty one patients filled a questionnaire prior to attending the preoperative anaesthesia clinic and again after the clinic visit over a four month period. Results: Seventy one percent of the patient knew that anaesthetists were medically qualified. Thirty three percent identified the anaesthetist as a person who took care of patients during the surgery which increased to 38 % after clinic visit. Sixty seven percent of patients responded pre visit that an anaesthetist stays with the patient during surgery, this increased to 74% after visit. For postoperative care 42% indentified an anaesthetist as responsible before visit and 46% after it. Only 32% knew that the anaesthetist has role outside operating room which increased to 48 % after visiting the clinic. Majority wanted to know more about anaesthesia both before ( 77.1% ) and after ( 73.2) clinic visit. Fifty six percent patients were anxious before hospital admission and surgery was the main cause of their anxiety which decreased in 80% of visitors after the visit. Sixty five percent wanted more information after visiting the anaesthetist in the clinic. Conclusion : This audit shows poor perception of the role of the anaesthetist both inside and outside the operating room. However improvement was seen in some areas after preoperative the anaesthesia clinic visit.