Application of Standard Informed Consent Procedure Amongst Practicing Anesthetists in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Karachi Informed Consent Practices Among Anesthetists

Abstract

Background: Informed consent is a critical component of anesthesia practice, ensuring patient autonomy and safety. However, variability in the application of consent procedures among anesthetists may impact patient understanding and care quality.
Objective: To evaluate the application of standard informed consent procedures among practicing anesthetists in tertiary care hospitals in Karachi.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 15, 2021, to August 14, 2021, across five tertiary care hospitals in Karachi. A total of 112 anesthetists, including consultants and residents with at least two years of experience, were recruited through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a custom-made 16-item questionnaire. Responses were scored from 0 to 64, with scores ≥32 considered acceptable. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests for comparisons.
Results: The mean age of participants was 34.04 ± 8.15 years, with 5.43 ± 5.9 years of experience. Compliance with consent standards was 99.11%, with 111 out of 112 participants scoring ≥32. No significant differences were observed across age, gender, or qualification (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Anesthetists in Karachi showed high adherence to informed consent standards, though enhancements in risk disclosure are recommended to further improve patient care.