Importancia del consentimiento informado en pacientes que requieren exodoncia en la clínica odontológica UCSG B-2025.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the level of understanding of informed consent among patients requiring tooth extraction at the Dental Clinic of the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil during the period B-2025. Materials and methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional, observational, and analytical study was conducted with 183 patients selected using non-probability convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire with 13 items and a Likert scale was administered to assess patients' understanding of the aspects of informed consent, such as the reason for the procedure, risks, benefits, confidentiality, and ethical considerations. The total score allowed for the classification of the level of understanding as low, medium, or high. Results: It was found that 80.8% of patients demonstrated an understanding of the reason for the tooth extraction and the informed consent process, while 72.5% understood the confidentiality of information and compliance with legal regulations. 71.4% understood the indications in case of complications, and 63.2% understood the benefits of the procedure. Overall, 79% of patients demonstrated an adequate level of comprehension. A significant association was found between the level of comprehension and age (p = 0.008) and educational level (p = 0.010), but not with sex (p = 0.367). Conclusion: The majority of patients seen at the UCSG dental clinic demonstrated a high level of comprehension, reflecting that communication between the student staff and the patients was effective. Age and educational level influenced comprehension.