The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the delivery of healthcare services, including voice therapy. A recent research article titled "Terapia de voz en el contexto de la pandemia covid-19; recomendaciones para la práctica clÃnica" offers valuable insights and recommendations for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to enhance their clinical practice during these challenging times. Here, we summarize key points from the study to help practitioners improve their skills and encourage further research.
Key Recommendations for Voice Therapy During COVID-19
The study, conducted by a group of 11 experts from five countries, provides 79 recommendations for managing voice disorders during the pandemic. These recommendations are categorized into several key areas:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): SLPs must use appropriate PPE, including N95 masks, face shields, gloves, and gowns, especially during aerosol-generating procedures. Proper donning and doffing techniques are essential to minimize contamination risks.
- Telepractice: Telepractice is recommended as a viable and effective alternative to in-person therapy. It reduces the risk of virus transmission while maintaining continuity of care. SLPs should ensure a stable internet connection, use external microphones, and provide clear instructions to patients.
- Voice Assessment: Voice assessments can be conducted through telepractice using perceptual evaluations, acoustic analyses, and patient self-assessments. While mobile recordings may not be ideal for detailed acoustic analysis, they can be useful for monitoring progress.
- Early Intervention Post-Intubation: For patients who have undergone invasive mechanical ventilation, early voice intervention is crucial. Techniques such as semi-occluded vocal tract exercises and low-intensity, short-duration voice exercises can help mitigate voice disorders.
- Psychosocial Considerations: The pandemic has heightened stress levels for both patients and healthcare providers. Establishing a strong therapeutic rapport and addressing psychosocial factors are vital for successful voice therapy outcomes.
Encouraging Further Research
While the guidelines provided in the study are based on expert consensus and existing evidence, there is a need for ongoing research to validate and refine these recommendations. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and adapt their practices accordingly.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Terapia de voz en el contexto de la pandemia covid-19; recomendaciones para la práctica clÃnica.
