Doctor-patient communication in surgery

Area of Science:

• Medical Communication
• Surgical Patient Care
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Effective communication is crucial for patient outcomes and satisfaction in surgical settings.
• Understanding patient knowledge and anxiety levels is vital for appropriate care delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficiency of communication between junior hospital doctors and general surgical patients.
• To identify discrepancies in perceived knowledge and anxiety between doctors and patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilized standardized questionnaires administered to 77 general surgical patients and their junior doctors (house doctors).
• Data collected pre- and post-interview to evaluate communication effectiveness and information accuracy.

Main Results:

• Patients were better informed about their illness than their surgical procedures.
• Doctors inaccurately estimated patient knowledge in 41% of cases and anxiety in 58% of cases.
• While 60% of patients were satisfied, most desired more information on convalescence, pain, and ward routines.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in doctor-patient communication within general surgery, particularly regarding surgical details and postoperative care.
• Improved estimation of patient knowledge and anxiety by doctors is necessary.
• Addressing patient information needs regarding recovery and pain management is essential for enhancing satisfaction.