Irish patients knowledge and perception of anaesthesia.

Patients are often unaware of the extensive duties of an anaesthetist and their significant contributions to patient management. This study aimed to evaluate current knowledge and perceptions of anaesthesia among an Irish patient population. 100 surgical patients completed multiple choice questionnaires which assessed patients knowledge of anaesthesia, the role of an anaesthetist and satisfaction with the consent process. 62 (62%) patients attributed their knowledge of anaesthesia to a previous operation and 78 (78%) patients knew that anaesthetists were qualified doctors. 30 (30%) patients were unaware that anaesthetists are involved in activities outside of the operation theatre. 44 (44%) patients wanted to be informed pre-operatively of all possible risks that can occur with anaesthesia and 82 (82%) would find an anaesthetics information leaflet helpful. 48 (48%) patients reported feeling anxious/fearful about undergoing anaesthesia. This data confirms existing research in other countries which indicates a need to further educate Irish patients about the roles of the anaesthetist and how anaesthesia is conducted.