The UCSF Anesthesia Division of Global Health Equity (ADGHE) conducted a quality improvement project to enhance the patient consent process and improve access to information, especially for non-English speaking patients. The perioperative period is stressful for all patients, during which they are expected to absorb complex information. This can be especially daunting for non-English speaking patients, who comprise a significant proportion of operative patients at ZSFG. With the support of a SURF grant, Drs. Laura Lang and Michael Lipnick designed a series of animated videos in multiple languages for patients requiring any form of anesthesia care at ZSFG.

Five videos have been created (general, neuraxial, regional and obstetric anesthesia, and monitored anesthesia care) in three languages (English, Spanish, and Cantonese). These videos are intended to augment the informed consent process and enhance patient understanding of the anesthesia care plan. In addition to the existing oral and written consent process, patients will view these videos in the pre-op clinic and pre-op holding area.