Reliability of Vocal Self-assessment Tools in Individuals With Vocal Complaints Applied Using a Digital Platform and In-person

Abstract

ObjectiveTo verify the reliability of vocal self-assessment tools in individuals with vocal complaints using a digital platform and in-person. MethodsData from 50 Brazilian adults with vocal complaints were collected. The participants answered the Voice Symptoms Scale (VoiSS), the Voice Handicap Index – 10 (VHI-10), and questions regarding personal information and their general health. The data collection occurred in two moments, within a period of 2–14 days, with time variation between participants, and always in the same collection order: 1. using a digital platform (Google Forms); 2. In-person. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the SPSS 25.0 software and the Wilcoxon Test. ResultsThe self-perception of vocal symptoms in the Emotional factors for women presented a statistical difference between the digital platform and the in-person response (P = 0.029); higher scores were observed when answers were given in-person compared to using a digital platform. ConclusionOverall, the participants perceived their voice symptoms and voice handicap similarly when answers were given using a digital platform and in-person. The Emotion voice symptoms in women were the only exception, although remaining deviated; however, the perception of the symptoms may have been attenuated during the in-person care.