Knowledge and attitude regarding written consent in hospital practice among patients and family members

Abstract

Informed consent for clinical treatment has become a vital part of contemporary medical
practice; it means different things in different contexts, is variably practiced and rarely achieves the
theoretical ideal. The informed consent process requires the physician to explain in sufficient detail, the
diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic reasoning that leads to his expert decision on what is in the best
interest of the patient The practice of informed consent has historical roots in various disciplines and plays
a critical role in hospital as we are entering the era of patient as a consumer and doctor as a service
provider.1The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding written consent in
hospital practice among patients and family members in selected health care institute.MATERIALS AND
METHODS: Non-Experimental Descriptive design used on 100samples. Non-probability purposive
sampling technique was used and was statically analysed. Ethical clearance was taken from the Institutional
ethics committee. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics. RESULTS:The study results showed
that majority 61% of patients have average knowledge, 23% samples have good knowledge and 16%
samples have poor knowledge with the mean of 9.36 and SD of 3.39. The majority of samples 66% in
group of family members have average knowledge, 25% samples have good knowledge and 11% samples
have poor knowledge with the mean of 9.95 and SD of 3.2. Majority 65% patients strongly agree that
signing the consent form is a legal requirement. Majority 48% patients agree that patient have the right to
change your mind after signing the consent form. Majority 57% patients agree that consent form help
because me aware of risks of the procedure. Majority 54% patients agree that consent form gave the
doctors control over what happened. Majority 44% patients agree that consent form explain that what was
going to proceed. Majority 50% patients strongly agree that signing the consent form is to protect the
hospital. Majority 48% patients strongly agree that Consent form explain the risk involved in having the
procedure. CONCLUSION:The findings showed demographic variables like age and marital status of the
patients are associated with the knowledge regarding written consent.This study will be vital part for the
clinical setting. Written consent will helpful for legal as well as support patient defined goals. It will be
helpful and provide efficient safeguard.It also is preventing unwanted procedures