RECALL OF INFORMED CONSENT AFTER ENDOSCOPIC PROCEDURES

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to determine if recall of informed consent is affected by the timing of obtaining informed consent before endoscopic procedures. METHODS: Sixty patients scheduled for colonosc opy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy were enrolled in this prospective, r andomized study. Each patient received informed consent 24 to 72 hours or immediately before the procedure, and follow-up occurred one to th ree days postprocedure. RESULTS: There was no statistically significan t difference in recall of informed consent or the individual elements of informed consent (indication, risks, benefits, alternatives) betwee n the two groups. CONCLUSION: Recall of informed consent is similar wh ether consent is obtained immediately or several days before endoscopi c procedures.