Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
NuernbergStift, Nuremberg, Germany.
Logoped Phoniatr Vocol. 2022 Oct;47(3):194-201. doi: 10.1080/14015439.2021.1915376. Epub 2021 May 14.
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, professional caregivers caring for the elderly may experience more vocal tract problems in addition to regular high vocal demands while wearing face masks/coverings.
Vocal tract discomfort (VTD) was assessed in 64 caregivers in one home for the elderly (64% participation rate) in June 2020 using the German version of the VTD scale.
More than one-half of the participating caregivers experienced VTD, described mostly as dryness, irritability, and tightness. Approximately, 80% reported that sensations were not perceived before enhanced infection prevention standards were implemented.
Among caregivers caring for the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic, special care should be focused on the voice and vocal tract well-being.
在 2019 年冠状病毒病（COVID-19）大流行期间，专业护理人员在照顾老年人时，除了常规的高嗓音需求外，佩戴口罩/覆盖物可能会出现更多的声道问题。
2020 年 6 月，使用 VTD 量表的德语版本，对一家养老院的 64 名护理人员（64%的参与率）进行了声道不适（VTD）评估。
超过一半的参与护理人员经历了 VTD，主要表现为干燥、易怒和紧绷。大约 80%的人报告说，在实施增强感染预防标准之前，他们没有感觉到这些感觉。
在 COVID-19 大流行期间照顾老年人的护理人员中，应特别关注声音和声道健康。
