Patient perceptions of the otolaryngology ward round in a teaching hospital

Objective: This survey assesses patients' perceptions of a daily otolaryngology ward round in a teaching hospital. Methods: Initial, open-ended questionnaires generated themes from which a structured questionnaire was constructed. Patients' perceptions in a wide range of areas were examined by asking them to indicate on a Likert scale the extent to which they agreed or disagreed with a number of statements concerning various aspects of the ward round. Results: One hundred patients were surveyed. The response rate was 79 per cent. The findings showed overall patient satisfaction with the ward round, particularly in the areas of information-giving regarding diagnosis, treatment and follow-up arrangements. The large size of the ward round appeared to be intimidating and induced anxiety for approximately one-third of patients. Patients wished the roles of staff present to be better defined and to be informed of the presence of medical students. One-third of patients perceived staff to use language that was difficult to understand. Conclusions: The survey identified some improvement opportunities and will assist our department with its on-going endeavours to improve the ward round experience for both patients and staff.