Pre-anaesthesia Assessment Clinics: A look at the Practice in Ghana and Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The practice of Pre-anaesthesia Assessment Clinics (PACs) is the trend in many developed countries. Some developing countries are imbibing the practice because of the benefits it offers. It has been shown to increase patient satisfaction with anaesthetic services, reduce delay and cancellation of surgical procedures and decrease the cost of hospitalization among other benefits. Some tertiary hospitals in Ghana run PACs while in Nigeria, two hospitals are known to run a PAC. This study looked at the practice of PACs in Ghana and Nigeria.
Methodology: This was a questionnaire-based survey in Nigeria and Ghana. Questionnaires were sent out to selected tertiary hospitals in the two countries using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Information was collected from physician/nurse anaesthetists and surgeons. Data obtained were analyzed and expressed as numbers and percentages.
Results: A total of thirty four questionnaires, seventeen each from both countries were filled and returned. Cooperation of the Chief Medical Directors, anaesthetists, nurses, surgeons and other healthcare workers were among the factors needed to facilitate the operation of PACs in both countries. Benefits of PACs reported included its patient oriented nature, an enriched patient's medical records; it makes better the preoperative preparation and a decreased cancellation of surgery. Nigerian respondents said absence of office space and non-availability of supporting staff were responsible for the lack of widespread running of PACs.
Conclusion: The cooperation of all stakeholders in the health sector is needed to be able to successfully operate PACs in hospitals. There is need for all Nigerian tertiary hospitals to set up PACs in order to enjoy its numerous benefits