How readable and reliable is online patient information on chronic rhinosinusitis?

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the quality and readability of websites on chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods A total of 180 results from 3 different search engines regarding ‘chronic rhinosinusitis’, ‘sinusitis’ and ‘sinus infections’ were analysed for readability using the Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level, Flesch Reading Ease Score and Gunning Fog Index. The Discern tool was used to approximate information quality. Results From 180 total searches, 69 unique websites were identified. These had an average Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level of 9.75 (95 per cent confidence interval = 9.12–10.4), a Flesch Reading Ease Score of 45.0 (41.0–49.0) and a Gunning Fog Index of 13.7 (12.9–14.4), which equates to the average reading level of a college or university student. Discern scores were variable but consistently showed good-quality information. Conclusion Chronic rhinosinusitis information is of a high quality but is for a reading level higher than that of the average adult. Standardising patient information should ensure adequate comprehension and improve patient compliance.

Sinus Surgery and Balloon Sinuplasty: What Do Patients Want to Know?

“…16 Two studies more broadly looking at sinusitis had variable findings when assessing quality, with 1 study also demonstrating readability above the recommended level. 14,17…”

“…A few prior studies have considered the readability and quality of online information for patients undergoing sinus surgery, demonstrating readability above the recommended level 15 and low quality of information 16 . Two studies more broadly looking at sinusitis had variable findings when assessing quality, with 1 study also demonstrating readability above the recommended level 14,17 …”

“…16 Two studies more broadly looking at sinusitis had variable findings when assessing quality, with 1 study also demonstrating readability above the recommended level. 14,17 Of the studies we identified online, only 1 discussed the source of information. In an analysis of YouTube content by Uyesugi et al, 18 included videos were most commonly created by private practice physicians (51%), patients (32%), third parties (13%), and academic institutions (5%).…”

Assessing the readability and quality of online information on Bell's palsy

“…For example, analysis of online information relating to the search term ‘tinnitus’ was found to be of ‘fair quality’ but had poor readability 16 . Similarly, online information relating to ‘chronic rhinosinusitis’ was found to be of high-quality but poor readability 17 Bell's palsy is an acute, unilateral facial nerve weakness of rapid onset and unknown cause It is important to quickly seek medical attention after the onset of symptoms to avoid misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis This study aimed to assess the readability and quality of online information on Bell's palsy Online information on Bell's palsy is generally of fair quality but written above the recommended reading age guidance in the UK There was a negligible correlation between the readability and quality of online information on Bell's palsy …”

Patient education information material assessment criteria: A scoping review

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