American Neurotology Society, American Otological Society, and American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Foundation Guide to Enhance Otologic and Neurotologic Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Otology & Neurotology
Kozin, E. D., Remenschneider, A. K., et al. (2020).
Otology & Neurotology, 41(9), 1163-1174.
This guideline from the American Neurotology Society, American Otological Society, and American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery organizations provides recommendations for prioritizing care and utilizing best service provision practices for otologic and neurologic patients during the novel coronavirus pandemic. The following summarized recommendations should be considered with local conditions, laws, and resources.
American Neurotology Society; American Otological Society; American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation
<div>The following safety precautions are recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic:</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Prior to the provision of audiological services, patients and their caregivers should be screened for COVID-19 symptoms and risk factors by telephone before entering the office. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Once at the office, patients and providers should maintain appropriate social distancing requirements and use masks to cover mouths and noses. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Clinicians may consider use of additional personal protective equipment (PPE) based on patient risk level and likelihood of patient aerosol production during the procedure. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">PPE may include N95 surgical masks, eye protection, face shields, gloves, gowns, head and shoe coverings, and/or powered air purifying respirators. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Number of staff should be limited to minimize exposure risk, and procedure rooms or audiological booths should undergo a through cleaning protocol after each use.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>When possible, telemedicine screening and service provision should be provided as a safety precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic. <br><br>In-person, urgent audiological assessment should be prioritized for patients with, or suspected of, sudden sensorineural hearing loss, Meniere's disease, trauma to the outer ear, otitis externa secondary to cerumen impaction or foreign-body in the ear canal, infected or malfunctioning auditory implant, and any new patients with concerning symptoms without a diagnosis.</div>
