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Caregiver comprehension and satisfaction associated with informed consent for pediatric flexible bronchoscopy: A
Ryne Simpson1,2, Carolyn McHendry3, Lisa Mullen3
1Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, University of Alabama-Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
Insights
Caregivers are satisfied with the informed consent process for pediatric flexible bronchoscopy (FB). However, improving understanding of major risks and tailoring information for first-time procedures is recommended for better pediatric respiratory care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Medical Ethics
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is a common procedure for children with respiratory issues.
- Informed consent for FB lacks comprehensive data regarding caregiver comprehension and satisfaction.
- Patient safety is paramount in pediatric procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate caregiver comprehension and satisfaction with the informed consent process for pediatric flexible bronchoscopy.
- To identify areas for improvement in communicating risks and benefits of FB.
- To explore differences in information needs based on prior FB experience.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 71 primary caregivers of children undergoing outpatient FB.
- Assessment of caregiver satisfaction and understanding of benefits and risks.
- Analysis of information needs based on first-time vs. repeat procedures.
Main Results:
- High caregiver satisfaction (97%) with the overall consent process.
- Most caregivers understood benefits (97%) and minor risks (94%), but fewer understood major risks (83%).
- Caregivers of first-time pediatric FB patients were significantly more likely to desire additional information (OR: 5.97).
Conclusions:
- Caregivers are generally satisfied with the informed consent for pediatric FB.
- Enhancing understanding of major risks and tailoring information for new patients are key areas for improvement.
- Optimizing the informed consent process can improve patient safety and caregiver experience in pediatric bronchoscopy.
Abstract:
Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is a relatively common procedure performed in children with respiratory concerns. Despite this, there is no data examining the informed consent process for FB. A prospective study evaluating informed consent comprehension and satisfaction was conducted in 71 primary caregivers of children undergoing outpatient FB. Most caregivers (97%) were overall satisfied with the consent process and reported understanding the potential benefits (97%) and minor risks (94%) associated with the procedure. A smaller percentage (83%) reported understanding major risks associated with FB. Patient safety was reported as the most important aspect of the consent process. Caregivers of children undergoing FB for the first time were more likely to want additional FB-specific information when compared to caregivers of children who had previously undergone FB (53% vs 16%, odds ratio: 5.97). In general, caregivers of children undergoing outpatient FB are satisfied with the informed consent process. Areas for improvement include ensuring adequate understanding of major risks associated with the procedure and considering a tailored approach based on the caregiver's level of experience.
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