Current practice of otolaryngologists during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine current methods implemented by the otorhinolaryngologists in their outpatient practice, their mental wellbeing and recommend safe clinical practice based on current literature. Materials and Methods: Qualitative questionnaire study was conducted on otorhinolaryngologists working in various setups. The questionnaire had four parts including demographics, current ENT practice and precautions, mental wellbeing based on Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, and the COVID infection status. Results: Stress related to COVID did not affect the practice hours and consultation duration (P = 0.94). Nearly, 96% of the participants diligently followed hand hygiene and 87.4% stressed on the need of screening the patients before consultation. Although none of the participants had dysfunctional anxiety (score >9) on coronavirus anxiety scale, participants who had elders at home showed increased stress levels during the pandemic (P = 0.027). Participants with comorbidities did not show any elevated stress levels (P = 0.06). Endoscopic procedures (71.65%) and digital palpation of the oral cavity (42.3%) were the most stressful outpatient department procedures experienced by the participants. Although prophylactic medications were taken by 56.8% of participants, there was no association observed between comorbidities and prophylaxis (P = 0.57). Conclusion: The study highlights that otorhinolaryngologists are taking adequate precautions during the pandemic and the risk factors for anxiety were less due to a better understanding of coronavirus infection.