Dermatological postoperative patient information leaflets: is it time for more uniformity?

Abstract

The advice given in dermatology postoperative PILs across England and Wales is highly variable. A nationally agreed template or set of postoperative advice should be considered to improve consistency.

Evaluation of Australian dermatological postoperative patient information leaflets: Should we have a national checklist?

“…The results highlight the high degree of heterogeneity in the guidance provided to patients in the PILs that were evaluated. Firstly, the guidance on the minimum duration of dressing was equally split between 48 h and 24 h. In a study of postoperative dermatology PILs from the UK, the mode advice on the minimum dressing duration was 48 h (45/102; 44.1%) . However, it is notable that in certain regions in Australia the climate and humidity may preclude the wearing of dressings beyond 24 h.…”

“…Before analysis, 10 preselected parameters were identified. These were agreed between the authors and were selected in light of the existing literature on the subject . These were: minimum dressing duration, haemostatic advice, postoperative analgesia, whether the PIL described ≥ two signs of infection (e.g.…”

“…These were: minimum dressing duration, haemostatic advice, postoperative analgesia, whether the PIL described ≥ two signs of infection (e.g. any two of redness, pain, swelling, pus or temperature), advice on applying petroleum jelly to the wound, whether the PIL highlighted the name of a contact if there was a problem, whether the PIL mentioned scarring at all (as a side‐effect), the advice given on active exercise, smoking, and information on alcohol . Of the full set of PILs that was received, 10 were randomly selected and independently analysed by two of the authors (WH and NO).…”

“…Patient information leaflets (PILs) are a resource commonly given to patients following skin surgery to provide advice and reassurance in the community. Evidence from the UK has demonstrated there is inconsistency in the advice provided in these postoperative PILs . This theme of inconsistent guidance has also been reflected in analyses of PILs based on skin cancer prevention, in addition to medical and surgical specialties .…”

Evaluation of the Readability of Dermatological Postoperative Patient Information Leaflets Across England

“…11 In December 2013, all acute trusts (n = 159) in England were requested under the Freedom of Information Act (2000) to provide their dermatological PIL on sutured wound care (preferred) or excision biopsy. If an organization had more than one dermatology department, the PIL for each department was requested.…”