Patient knowledge of the risks of post-splenectomy sepsis

Splenectomy is associated with a lifelong increase in the risk of sepsis. The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of patients who have undergone splenectomy within an Australian area health service.

Adults undergoing a splenectomy between 1994 and 2004 within the Hunter Area Health Service were invited to participate in the study. Consenting participants were contacted by telephone and a standardized questionnaire completed.

More than 50% of participants displayed a good active knowledge of the risk of infection post-splenectomy and an understanding of the role of vaccinations in reducing the risk of infection. Few participants (11.3%) had standby antibiotics readily available. Knowledge of travel precautions and risk of sepsis following animal bites was poor.

Although most participants displayed a good knowledge of infection risk post-splenectomy, deficiencies in knowledge were identified. We propose the development of a splenectomy protocol and patient briefing to improve patient education.