Objective
Interdisciplinary team members counsel and educate patients who are scheduled for phonosurgery. This workshop addresses the contrasting yet similar information provided to patients (and their caregivers) whether the patient is pediatric or adult.
Method
Phonosurgery is typically an elective procedure, and care is taken by the voice clinic team members to appropriately prepare the patient for impending phonosurgery. Workshop presenters include laryngologists and speech-language pathologists who specialize in either pediatric or adult dysphonia. Team members will elaborate on the key items addressed in pre-operative visit, as well as counseling to ensure patient trust, confidence, and comfort with the impending surgery. Differences in education and counseling of the patient for in-office vs. operating room surgical procedures are addressed.
Results
Education of the patient for pre-, peri- and post-op events is paramount to patient confidence and awareness of the events surrounding phonosurgery. Patients are informed by both the laryngologist and speech-language pathologist, but information conveyed by healthcare specialists differs depending on patient age, and expected post-operative recovery or voice function.
Conclusions
Informed and supportive care for patients preparing for phonosurgery is essential for a positive patient experience. There should be no surprises. Patients and their caregivers deserve appropriate education and counseling to prepare for surgery. Effective patient education allows the patient to understand what is likely to happen, when, and how to prepare mentally and emotionally for a successful phonosurgery experience.