Patient perspectives on nurse-led follow-up calls after head and neck surgery

Head and neck (HN) surgery is a complex, life-changing procedure that demands intensive patient care and support following hospital discharge. This study assessed the acceptability of a nurse-led telehealth service for post-discharge care of head and neck surgery patients.

Patients who had head and neck surgery at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse from April to July 2024 were recruited through consecutive sampling. Eligible patients were contacted by the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) and asked about their post-discharge care and concerns within 48 hours of discharge from hospital. At the end of each phone call, patients were asked to complete a survey on the call's acceptability, including an open-ended question about their experience, which underwent content analysis.

Of 120 participants (77.4% response rate), 63% were male, 70% lived in a major city of Australia, with an average age of 60 years. Most participants strongly agreed (71%) or agreed (27%) that the call was helpful, and addressed their needs (67%). Nearly all (99%) felt supported by the CNS during the call. Of the 42 participants who reported experiencing a problem following discharge, the majority knew who to contact (83%). Content analysis revealed that participants found benefit in the phone call as an opportunity to ask questions and provide reassurance.

Participants found the nurse-initiated follow-up call acceptable, useful, and reassuring. This study supports the implementation of nurse-led telehealth services for post-discharge care following HNC surgery.