Patient information about pain relief

Abstract Obstetric anaesthetists usually look after fit, pregnant women who may already have made their decisions regarding the pain relief options they would like to use during labour. With the emphasis on patient autonomy, choice and patient-centred care, coupled with the changing nature of labour pain and mode of delivery, obstetric anaesthetists often face a challenge in terms of the provision of good evidence-based information. Women obtain information from a myriad of sources including relatives, friends, magazines, books, and the Internet, as well as from health-care workers. Providing good information at an early stage is important as it forms the central core of consent and also improves the women’s self esteem-and care, and can lead to increased satisfaction. It is important for health-care workers to realize that giving information is a process over a period of time, ideally when the parturient is most interested and receptive. This may be during the antenatal period, once labour pain has started or even after delivery, to answer any queries that may arise. Research has shown that, despite the influence of pain or drugs, women like to be informed and are capable of recalling information. A variety of techniques to impart information can be utilized, including group or individual talks, leaflets and videos, the use of information cards and pain relief algorithms in patient-friendly language. The medico-legal literature reminds us that the largest contributory factor in complaints leading to possible litigation is the lack of communication and information given to the parturient before and after the event.