Remote speech-language-hearing follow-up: monitoring cochlear implant users in the immediate postoperative period

ABSTRACT Purpose: to verify whether the complementary remote speech-language-hearing follow-up is an effective tool in the monitoring of cochlear implant users in the immediate postoperative period. Methods: a total of 26 relatives participated in the study, divided into two groups: with and without remote speech-language-hearing follow-up. By the time the device was activated, they were given instructions on four subjects: the device, family, school, and speech-language-hearing therapy. After one week, the group with remote speech-language-hearing follow-up started receiving such care via mobile phone. In the in-person follow-up visit, a questionnaire was administered (containing questions on the guidance given), as well as an interview with the parents/guardians that received the remote follow-up. The data obtained from the questionnaire were analyzed with Fisher’s exact test, with 5% significance. The qualitative data were analyzed based on Bardin’s theme content analysis technique. Results: there was a significant difference in the quantitative results between the groups regarding “device” and “school”. In the qualitative data, it was verified that the remote speech-language-hearing follow-up furnished greater assurance to the relatives of the cochlear implant users, helping them in the therapeutic process and at school. Conclusion: the complementary remote speech-language-hearing follow-up proved to be an effective tool in the subjects researched, especially regarding the handling of the device and guidance to school.