A QR code based multimodal education pathway to support consent and positioning for neuraxial anaesthesia in obstetrics

Published Date: 01st May 2026

Publication Authors: Ramineedi. A, Kunchi Kannan. SL, Simionica. A, Fisher. S, Kingston. E

Introduction
Obtaining informed consent and achieving good positioning for neuraxial anaesthesia in labour can be difficult due to pain, anxiety and time pressure. Verbal explanations and written leaflets alone may not fully support understanding of risks or positioning, particularly when information is provided late in labour. Standardised, accessible educational resources may help address these challenges.

Method(s)
This quality improvement project describes implementation of a QR code based education pathway for labour epidural and spinal anaesthesia in a single maternity unit. The pathway includes: (1) A video demonstrating epidural positioning and outlining the procedure, (2) A video explaining labour epidural risks and side effects and, (3) A spinal anaesthesia positioning poster. Content was aligned with Royal College of Anaesthetists patient information. Videos include narration and on screen subtitles to improve accessibility. QR codes linking to epidural videos are included on epidural risk leaflets1 for antenatal and delivery suite use. QR codes linking to the spinal positioning guide are displayed on spinal risks leaflets2 and wall posters in theatre and waiting areas, positioned within the patient's line of sight during neuraxial positioning.

Results
Videos, leaflets, QR codes and posters have been developed for pilot use. Feedback from women, midwives and anaesthetists will be collected using brief questionnaires assessing understanding of neuraxial risks, preparedness for positioning and perceived anxiety.

Discussion
This initiative aims to improve accessibility, consistency and timing of neuraxial information and support shared decision making. QR coded resources allow women to access information at their own pace, while positioning posters act as visual prompts in busy clinical environments. The approach is low cost, scalable and reproducible across maternity units, with potential to improve patient experience and standardise consent processes. [Formula presented] QR Code for Epidural Procedure and Positioning Video [Formula presented]

Ramineedi, A; Kunchi Kannon, SL; Simionica, A; Fisher, S; Kingston. E. (2026). A QR code based multimodal education pathway to support consent and positioning for neuraxial anaesthesia in obstetrics. International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia. 66(Supplement), Article no. 105060. [Online]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijoa.2026.105060 [Accessed 27 May 2026]