Patient awareness, perception and attitude to contrast-enhanced CT examination: Implications for communication and compliance with patients’ preferences

Abstract

Background. Despite the high volume of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) examinations, there is limited awareness about its risks among patients and little is known about the influence of patient information sheets. Objectives. The objective of this study was to assess patients' awareness and perception of risks related to CECT examination and how they are influenced by an information sheet. Material and methods. A total of 263 adult patients scheduled for a CECT examination completed a questionnaire. The first page evaluated patients' characteristics, their fear and awareness about examinationrelated risks, and source of information. Page 2 contained the Zung self-rating anxiety scale. After reading the information sheet, patients completed page 3 that surveyed how their awareness and fear had changed. Results. Nearly half of the patients underestimated the risk of secondary malignancy (n = 121, 46%), or the risk of renal impairment (n = 110, 42%). The vast majority (n = 227, 86%) stated that they were not instructed to maintain fluid intake up to 1 h before the procedure. After reading the information sheet, patients generally corrected their knowledge, but 195 (74%) reported experiencing greater fear (p < 0.0001). Fear was more pronounced in younger female patients who had not undergone CT previously. Patients feared the result more than examination-related risks. Most patients (n = 204, 78%) would feel uncomfortable before receiving the examination result. Conclusions. Most patients do not assess risks related to CECT examination correctly. Although the information sheet improves patients' understanding of CECT-related risks, it lacks empathically delivered reassurance and increases their fear. Fast communication of examination results would make patients feel more comfortable.

Effects of a 360° virtual counselling environment on patient anxiety and CCTA process time: A randomised controlled trial

“…Particular attention should be paid to such patients, as previous studies have shown that first-time examinations are associated with higher anxiety levels. 4,5,8,65,72,75,76,78 The CCTA process times between the groups were similar. In a previous study, 360 VR exerted a positive effect on the time required to perform a chest radiography, 51,52 which usually has a shorter process time than CCTA.…”

Patient Perceptions and Knowledge of Ionizing Radiation From Medical Imaging

“…[11][12][13][14][15][16] In particular, patients' knowledge about medical radiation is limited, and the perception of radiation risks is variable depending on age and educational level. [17][18][19] In Italy, this issue is of special interest owing to the European Council Directive 2013/59/ Euratom having become effective starting on August 27, 2020. 11,20 In this context, a nationwide survey might help to more thoroughly assess patients' knowledge about medical radiation and its potential risks.…”

Upper tract imaging modality to investigate haematuria: cancer detection rates and changing guidelines

“…Interestingly, CTUs to investigate haematuria make up 2.3% and 5.2% of each hospitals overall respective workload in the CT department. Further reductions in the number of CTUs performed would be a welcome reduction in workload for the radiology department as well sparing the patient the potential harmful sequela of a contrast enhanced scan of which they are often unaware [9].…”