Three simple steps to instantly improve patient satisfaction

Whilst the vast majority of big number patient research focuses on physiological outcomes, few studies have attempted to investigate the factors that patients perceive to be indicative of quality anaesthesia. A group from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth, Western Australia have developed and validated a simple patient survey that has demonstrated the facets of an anaesthetist and the delivery of anaesthesia that patients value. Data collected from over 7000 patients was used as the basis for departmental education and feedback with striking results. Dr Bill Weightman talks to the BJA about this impressive piece of work and reveals the three things that dramatically improve patients' perception of their anaesthesia care.