Experiences of Hospital Health Professionals in Caring for Deaf Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Ruiz-Arias Natalia, Barría-Pailaquilén Rene M.
Primary Institution: Universidad Austral de Chile
Hypothesis
This study aimed to describe the experience of hospital health professionals in the care of deaf patients.
Conclusion
The health professionals' experience impacts both themself and the quality of patient care, highlighting barriers that create inequality in access to health for deaf people.
Supporting Evidence
- Health professionals reported using various methods like gestures and writing to communicate with deaf patients.
- Emotions such as tension and discomfort were common among professionals when caring for deaf patients.
- Age and literacy levels of patients significantly influenced communication effectiveness.
- Environmental factors, such as privacy and time constraints, impacted the quality of care provided.
- Family members often acted as interpreters, which raised concerns about patient autonomy.
Takeaway
Doctors and nurses find it hard to communicate with deaf patients, which makes it tough for them to get the right care. They need better tools and training to help.
Methodology
A qualitative study with a descriptive phenomenological approach using face-to-face semi-structured interviews.
Potential Biases
The study may not encompass the full range of health professionals and their experiences with deaf patients.
Limitations
The study only included eight health professionals and focused on a hospital context, which may not reflect experiences in primary health care.
Participant Demographics
Participants included doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and speech therapists from various departments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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