Results of a survey in Andalusian endoscopy units

In Spain, there is no indication of the resources that an endoscopy unit should have. As a consequence only the experience of professionals who have been working for years in this field can be used as a guide. However, there are some recent surveys on sedation in Spain that indicate how sedation is use in other units.

The objectives of the present study were: a) to find out the human and material resources available in endoscopy units in Andalusia; b) to analyze the number of endoscopies performed in our country; and c) to identify factors that can be improved.

In order to make an assessment of the conditions and resources of said units in Andalusia, a survey was designed for the staff of gasteroenterology department. Hospitals involved are those specified in this paper. The survey, which included 90 questions, covers all aspects concerning each unit. There are questions on the real conditions of the unit, and on what would be considered as ideal or at least as minimal requirement for each hospital or Health Area.

Even though some shortcomings were found in some hospitals, a high percentage of them have acceptable equipment. However, due to fast advances in the field of endoscopy, an improvement in the conditions should be provided, especially in aspects concerning anesthesia.