Attitudes, practices, and training on informed consent for transfusions and procedures: A survey of medical students and physicians

Objectives: While many studies have demonstrated problems with informed consent in current practice, there remains controversy on how to address this. The aim of this study was to evaluate the opinions, attitudes, practices, and training for informed consent. Methods: Medical students, residents, advanced practice providers, and attending physicians at an academic institution were invited to complete a survey on informed consent for transfusions and procedures through an electronic platform. Results: Most (94%, n = 304) respondents indicated previous training in informed consent, only 60% (n = 192) felt the training was adequate, and 35% (n = 92) indicated difficulties with informed consent. When asked what would aid in obtaining consent, 59% (n = 189) selected a written guideline, and 36% (n = 117) selected patient simulation. Conclusions: Only 60% of respondents felt their informed consent training was adequate. Multiple areas of difficulty in obtaining proper informed consent were identified that should be addressed with focused training or written guidelines.