Patient awareness, perception and attitude to contrast-enhanced CT examination: Implications for communication and compliance with patients' preferences.

BACKGROUND

Despite the high volume of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) examinations, there is limited awareness about its risks among patients and little is known about the influence of patient information sheets.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to assess patients' awareness and perception of risks related to CECT examination and how they are influenced by an information sheet.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 263 adult patients scheduled for a CECT examination completed a questionnaire. The first page evaluated patients' characteristics, their fear and awareness about examination-related risks, and source of information. Page 2 contained the Zung self-rating anxiety scale. After reading the information sheet, patients completed page 3 that surveyed how their awareness and fear had changed.

RESULTS

Nearly half of the patients underestimated the risk of secondary malignancy (n = 121, 46%), or the risk of renal impairment (n = 110, 42%). The vast majority (n = 227, 86%) stated that they were not instructed to maintain fluid intake up to 1 h before the procedure. After reading the information sheet, patients generally corrected their knowledge, but 195 (74%) reported experiencing greater fear (p < 0.0001). Fear was more pronounced in younger female patients who had not undergone CT previously. Patients feared the result more than examination-related risks. Most patients (n = 204, 78%) would feel uncomfortable before receiving the examination result.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients do not assess risks related to CECT examination correctly. Although the information sheet improves patients' understanding of CECT-related risks, it lacks empathically delivered reassurance and increases their fear. Fast communication of examination results would make patients feel more comfortable.