Abstract
Introduction
Sedation uptake rates for oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) vary greatly. Issues concerning adequate information and consent have been raised. Additionally, patient comprehension of sedation options is inconsistent.
Methods
A closed ended questionnaire was created and delivered to assess patient understanding regarding sedation prior to OGD. The questionnaire was based on British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines.
Results
One hundred and eleven patients were recruited. 90 % of the sedated and 73 % of the unsedated patients were satisfied with their respective decisions (OR 0.283, *p = 0.01). 65 % were unaware of basic differences between conscious sedation and general anesthesia, and 37 % were unaware that driving is permitted after having throat spray alone. The most informed of the age groups had the lowest uptake of sedation and the least informed had the highest uptake.
Conclusion
The decision to undergo gastroscopy with or without sedation is not a sufficiently informed one. This study highlights the need for the widespread dissemination of good quality information to inform patients better regarding sedation prior to OGD.
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Appendix
Appendix
Statement 1 The alternative to sedation is throat spray; this is similar to having your teeth numbed at the dentist. Were you made aware of this at any stage?
Statement 2 Because the scope tubes are now much thinner, the majority of people can manage this procedure with throat spray alone, and 2 out of 3 patients in the UK undergo this procedure without sedation. Were you made aware of this at any stage?
Statement 3 One of the benefits of throat spray is that you can go home unaccompanied almost immediately after the procedure and are permitted to drive. Were you made aware of this at any stage?
Statement 4 The main constraint of throat spray is that you must not eat or drink until the sensation in your mouth has returned to normal, which usually takes about an hour. Were you made aware of this at any stage?
Statement 5 If you have had sedation you must not drive, take alcohol, operate heavy machinery, look after children on our own, or sign any legally binding documents for 24 h following the procedure. Additionally you will need someone to take you home. Were you made aware of this at any stage?
Statement 6 Sedation makes you slightly drowsy and relaxed, but it does not put you to sleep. Additionally you are unlikely to remember anything about the procedure. Were you made aware at any stage?
Statement 7 Had you known the information outlined in the above statements, if you were to have this procedure again would you request sedation?
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Quinn, L., Kelly, M.E., Khan, A. et al. Sedation for gastroscopy: Is it an adequately understood and informed choice?. Ir J Med Sci 185, 785–789 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-015-1354-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-015-1354-x