Improving patient compliance with preoperative instructions

Non-compliance with preoperative instructions prior to conscious sedation can lead to delayed and cancelled appointments

The current changes within the NHS are often seen as overwhelming, but there is a consensus that treatment should be more patient-centred in its focus, with patient-reported outcomes as a key measure. In addition, ensuring that the most efficient and safe services are offered for patients not only aims to provide a high quality service but also a financially sensible approach in the current economic climate.

One element of this focus is improved communication. The authors of this month's article noted high non-compliance rates with preoperative instructions prior to conscious sedation, leading to delayed and cancelled appointments, longer waiting lists and costs both in time and money both to patients and the providing hospital. Their audit clearly illustrates the benefits, and limitations, of noting a problem and attempting to discover what the solution may be, in order to improve the sedation service for both patients and the Trust.