Decision aids help patients discuss anesthesia options

Editor's Note

Informational brochures help patients discuss anesthesia options with their anesthesia providers, finds a study presented at the Anesthesiology 2015 annual meeting in San Diego.

In the study, 67 patients were given brochures during a preoperative clinic visit that explained the different types of anesthesia, risks, and benefits, and included space for questions and notes, and 59 patients were not given the brochures.

Patients who received the brochures were more likely to discuss their anesthesia choices (78% vs 52%) and ask questions about regional anesthesia (70% vs 32%). 

"Decision aids" in the form of informational brochures help get patients talking about their anesthesia and pain relief options, according to a study presented at the ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2015 annual meeting. Shared decision making is critical to a more patient-centered process, as well as helping patients take an active role in their medical decisions.