Audiology practice during COVID-19 crisis in Jordan and Arab countries.

Zaitoun, Maha; Alqudah, Safa; Al Mohammad, Hana

OBJECTIVE This study investigated audiologists' knowledge of COVID-19 characteristics and infection control measures they followed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, it examined the impact of COVID-19 on audiology practice, and audiologist's knowledge of telehealth as an alternative. DESIGN A web-based cross-sectional study using a questionnaire consisting of four sections. STUDY SAMPLE This study engaged 164 audiologists practicing in Jordan and Arab countries. RESULTS Fever, cough, difficulty in breathing, and fatigue were identified as COVID-19 characteristics by over 80% of the audiologists. Other symptoms were identified by less than half of the audiologists. The audiologists showed limited knowledge regarding measures against COVID-19 transmission. This study revealed the limited availability of infection control measures in many audiologists' workplace. The majority of audiologists stopped working due to the COVID-19 crisis and only 61.6% of the audiologists were familiar with the concepts of tele-audiology and its related aspects. However, most participants were keen to learn more. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed limited knowledge among audiologists regarding some of the COVID-19 characteristics, and limited compliance with the infection control policies. Limited knowledge in the application of telehealth in audiology practice was also shown.