Degree of information perceived by legal guardians in the Informed Consent of challenge tests in Pediatric Allergy

Abstract

Introduction: Knowledge about the degree of information perceived by the legal guardians from the Informed Consent (IC) in pediatric setting is scarce. Objectives: To evaluate the degree of information perceived by legal guardians in the IC for challenge tests in Pediatric Allergy. Methods and Materials: It is a descriptive, observational and cross-sectional study of information assessment through a questionnaire, in the period April-May 2021. The questionnaire was developed by the author and his team on the base of a publicly available one. A descriptive and analytical statistical study was carried out using the SPSS 15.0 software. Results: Ninety-nine tutors with a mean age of 41 years were recruited, with 52% university, 27% professional, 17% secondary and 4% primary education. More than 70% of the sample positively rated the degree of information provided in relation to the procedure, its objective, its risk-benefit, and the dedication and decision time. 50% of the tutors negatively rated the information provided regarding alternative treatment, the possibility of denying and revoking the IC. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was very good, with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.88. No correlation was found between the degree of perception and several demographic or clinical variables. Conclusions: The degree of information perceived by the tutors is very good in general. The information in relation to the alternative procedures, the possibility of rejection and revocation of the IC can be improved.