An Audit of Patient Satisfaction of Flexible Nasoendoscopy in the SARS-CoV-2 Era

Background: Flexible nasoendoscopy is critical to a comprehensive head and neck examination. It is commonly performed in an outpatient setting and used as an examination tool and to monitor head and neck cancer patients. This procedure can be uncomfortable for patients and has the potential to generate aerosols and droplets, leading to a risk of transmission of respiratory tract illnesses such as SARS-CoV-2. Aims: This audit aimed to identify patients' experiences of undergoing flexible nasoendoscopy and ascertain whether they had concerns about this procedure during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: An observational study was conducted using a 15-item written questionnaire on patient-reported satisfaction with FNE in the SARS-CoV-2 era. Over three months, this questionnaire was disseminated to patients in outpatient clinics in a northwestern regional hospital in the Republic of Ireland.Results: 61 questionnaires were returned, and 53 were included in the data analysis.52.83% (n=28) were female, and the mean age was 53.The mean patient discomfort score was 3.22.This was inversely correlated with a thorough understanding of the procedure.87%(n=46) had no concerns about undergoing similar procedures during the pandemic.94.3% (n=50) of participants were fully vaccinated against SARS-Cov-2.Conclusions: Flexible nasoendoscopy can be uncomfortable, but a thorough understanding of the procedure can enhance the patient experience.Few concerns were expressed about hospital attendance and undergoing procedures during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.