Who is responsible for obtaining informed consent? A survey study.

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> The process of obtaining informed consent for surgical procedures is a fundamental aspect of medical practice. However, it receive relatively little focus in medical literature. <br><br><b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to assess the practices of obtaining surgical consent across surgical specialties, with a special focus on general surgery. <br><br><b>Material and methods:</b> This was a survey study conducted among Polish surgical specialists and residents from October 1^st to November 30^th, 2024. The survey included 13 closed-ended questions covering demographic data, legal knowledge, and personal practices regarding informed consent. The survey was distributed via social media. <br><br><b>Results:</b> A total of 282 respondents participated in the survey. General surgeons made up the largest group (51.8%), followed by gynecologists (16.7%). Of the 11 surgical associations contacted, 4 confirmed that they provide consent forms for their members. More than half of the respondents (58.2%) were familiar with the current legal regulations on informed consent. The majority of surgeons (62.4%) reported providing information to patients themselves, although discrepancies in practice were noted, with residents and interns also involved in obtaining consent in some cases. Furthermore, only 12.4% of patients received the consent form during their pre-surgical qualification visit, with most patients seeing it the day before surgery. In 36.9% of cases, the operating surgeon was responsible for obtaining consent. <br><br><b>Conclusions:</b> The study highlights variations in practices regarding informed consent, with significant differences between specialties. The need for clearer legal frameworks and standardized procedures is emphasized to reduce legal risks and improve patient care.