Improving Risk Communication in Anesthesia for Emergency Surgeries in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Informed Consent and Patient Safety Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Effective anesthetic risk communication in emergency surgeries is crucial for patient safety. In Saudi Arabia, cultural and systemic factors may challenge this process, impacting informed consent and outcomes.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study across three major tertiary care hospitals in Saudi Arabia. We included adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing emergency surgery requiring anesthesia from January 2019 to September 2024. We excluded incomplete records and non-competent patients without surrogates. Data included demographics, details of risk discussions, patient comprehension, and patient safety outcomes. Statistical analyses employed chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression. Multiple imputation addressed missing data.
Results: Among several hundred patients, structured and culturally sensitive communication correlated with improved informed consent quality and fewer medico-legal complaints. Logistic regression identified use of simplified language, visual aids, and involvement of family decision-makers as independent predictors of better outcomes.
Conclusions: Enhanced risk communication in emergency anesthesia settings improved patients’ informed consent and reduced complications in this Saudi cohort. Integrating culturally appropriate strategies and ethical guidelines can strengthen patient safety and guide policy refinements.