Departmental practice on informed consent in radiotherapy departments: a UK evaluation

Introduction

Valid and informed consent in healthcare is an ethical and legal requirement. This evaluation reports the practices within UK radiotherapy departments surrounding consent processes and therapeutic radiographer (TR) education. This article focuses on those patients who are considered to lack the capacity to consent.

Method

This service evaluation adopted a qualitative research design. Seventy-six radiotherapy department managers were sent the online survey: containing a combination of open, closed and free text questions relating to consent practices. Descriptive analysis using Microsoft Excel was performed; additional correlation analysis was attempted with Fisher’s exact test using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.

Results

TRs from 39 radiotherapy departments (51%) completed the survey. Analysis of results demonstrated obtaining written consent before radiotherapy treatment was completed in all departments. Assessment methods used to determine capacity to consent varied across the departments. Responses identified 37 departments employ a different consent form for those considered to lack capacity. Thirty-eight departments have a policy surrounding consent; 16 departments reported no formal TR education in consent. Of the remaining 22 departments, 13 departments included lack of capacity within their education package.

Conclusion

To ensure best practice throughout the UK, is it recommended that radiotherapy departments review their consent processes to ensure they are in the best interests of the patient. It is recommended that TRs are familiar with their regulatory body standards and the ethical and legal issues surrounding consent; all departments should consider capacity and those considered to lack capacity within their education and training framework.