Identifying communication-related predictors of patient satisfaction in a briefing prior to contrast-enhanced computed tomography

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to prospectively investigate patients’ satisfaction with briefings before computed tomography (CT) examinations, determine feasibility, and identify factors influencing patient satisfaction independent of patient and physician characteristics. METHODS: One hundred sixty patients received information by a radiologist prior to contrast-enhanced CT examinations in an open, prospective, two-center, cross-sectional study (including the introduction of the radiologist, procedure, radiation exposure, possible side effects, and alternatives). Afterwards, patients and radiologists evaluated the briefing using a standardized questionnaire. Additionally, factors such as age, socioeconomic status, inpatient/outpatient status, length of the radiologist’s professional experience, duration of the briefing, clarity of the radiologist’s explanations as perceived by patients, and the duration of communication were obtained in this questionnaire. Subsequently, three classes of influencing factors were defined and entered stepwise into a hierarchical regression. RESULTS: Patient satisfaction ratings differed significantly by type of hospitalization, perceived type of communication, and patient gender. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that perceived clarity was the strongest predictor of patients’ satisfaction when controlling for the patient and physician characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: Patients appeared to be satisfied with the briefing prior to CT examination. The mean briefing time (2 min 35 s) seemed feasible. Patients’ demographics influenced satisfaction. To improve patients’ satisfaction with briefings before contrast-enhanced CT, radiologists should aim to clarify their communication.