Recall of informed consent after endoscopic procedures

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine if recall of informed consent is affected by the timing of obtaining informed consent before endoscopic procedures.

Methods: Sixty patients scheduled for colonoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy were enrolled in this prospective, randomized study. Each patient received informed consent 24 to 72 hours or immediately before the procedure, and follow-up occurred one to three days postprocedure.

Results: There was no statistically significant difference in recall of informed consent or the individual elements of informed consent (indication, risks, benefits, alternatives) between the two groups.

Conclusion: Recall of informed consent is similar whether consent is obtained immediately or several days before endoscopic procedures.