Providers’ Perceptions of Barriers to Optimal Communication With Patients During the Postcolonoscopy Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Colonoscopy screening is an effective method of detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. Standard procedure for most colonoscopies (98%) is to use conscious sedation, which can cause short-term cognitive impairment postprocedure, including communication difficulties. In this study, we explored providers’ (gastroenterology doctors and nurses) perceptions of the barriers to optimal communication with patients immediately following colonoscopy. Methods: We conducted interviews with 61 providers across 5 clinical configurations. Interviews were transcribed and coded with NVivo version 11 software. Results: Themes emerged regarding barriers to optimal provider–patient communication postcolonoscopy: patient barriers (sedation and patient characteristics), caregiver barriers, and system characteristics. Conclusions: Providers’ perceived barriers to communication are an important topic to study. They endorsed, in particular, interventions that target the postcolonoscopy time frame when patients may still be sedated, but providers must convey important discharge and follow-up instructions.