The degree of knowledge of patients in a general outpatient clinic regarding potential risks of complications in outpatient surgeries

Abstract

Introduction: Outpatient surgery has associated risks of complications. The patient is expected to arrive at the  consultation with an understanding of the reason for the referral and that the professional responsible for the care guides and clarifies the therapeutic proposals. However, there is a gap in the patient’s level of knowledge and understanding regarding these referrals and the possible complications of an outpatient surgical procedure. Objective: To analyze patients’ level of knowledge regarding the risks of complications in outpatient surgeries and their associated factors. Method: This is a quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional study carried out from October to May 2023. Data collection was performed with the voluntary participation of 386 patients in an outpatient clinic in Belo Horizonte. A questionnaire was applied to assess the patient’s understanding of the risks of outpatient surgical procedures. Results: Of the 386 participants, 205 (53%) denied knowledge regarding the complications of outpatient surgeries, and of these, only 69 (34%) had completed high school. 250 (66%) participants denied knowledge about keloids, and 266 (71%) were unaware of necrosis. Furthermore, 378 (98%) patients stated the importance of knowledge. Finally, 141 (77.5%) stated that the lack of medical guidance was a triggering factor for having undergone outpatient surgeries without prior knowledge of the possible complications. Conclusion: It was concluded that low education level is an important factor in the lack of knowledge of patients regarding outpatient surgeries. Finally, there is a need to implement measures that can change or improve this scenario.