RESPONCES 2 WEEK 5 F..HEALTH COMM

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Response 1

The challenges faced in ICU communication during COVID-19 highlight the complexity

of managing patients who are not only physically vulnerable but also experiencing significant

communication barriers. The inability to speak due to a ventilator, combined with dysphagia and

reduced face-to-face communication, severely limits a patient's ability to express needs or

understand medical information (Istanboulian et al., 2022). The use of personal protective

equipment (PPE) further complicates matters by obscuring facial expressions and lip movements,

making non-verbal communication nearly impossible. Implementing an Augmentative and

Alternative Communication (AAC) strategy using tools like a dry erase board was a practical

approach to bridging this gap. This intervention not only facilitated communication but also

empowered the patient by giving them a way to engage in their care.

Reference

Istanboulian, L., Rose, L., Yunusova, Y., & Dale, C. (2022). Barriers to and facilitators for

supporting patient communication in the adult ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic: A

qualitative study. Journal of advanced nursing, 78(8), 2548–2560.

https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15212

Response 2

In this patient case, the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) played a crucial role in

overcoming the communication barriers exacerbated by the COVID-19 restrictions. Establishing

an AAC plan tailored to the patient's needs demonstrated adaptability and innovation in patient

care. The choice to use a dry erase board and written communication was particularly thoughtful,

allowing for clarity despite the limitations imposed by PPE and the patient's condition.
Additionally, addressing skin tears with proper techniques shows a commitment to holistic

patient care, considering both physical and communicative needs (Vaz et al., 2023). The regular

video calls with the patient's spouse also suggest a patient-centered approach, enhancing

emotional support and morale despite the lack of physical visits.

Reference

Vaz, M., D'Silva, C., Krishna, B., Ramachandran, P., D'Souza, M. C., Mendonca, L., & Raman,

P. (2023). Understanding the Challenges of Intensive Care Staff in Communicating With

Patients and Patients' Families During the COVID-19 Crisis: A Qualitative

Exploration. Cureus, 15(6), e40961. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40961

Response 3

The coordination of care in this case exemplifies a comprehensive approach to managing

complex ICU patients during the pandemic. The interdisciplinary collaboration between the SLP,

nursing staff, and other healthcare professionals was crucial in addressing both the

communication and physical needs of the patient. By developing an AAC plan that leveraged

simple yet effective tools like a dry erase board, the healthcare team provided the patient with a

means to communicate effectively despite the barriers posed by the ventilator and PPE (Khatri et

al., 2023). This approach not only improved patient comprehension but also demonstrated the

team's clinical and communication expertise in adapting to the unique challenges presented by

COVID-19.

Reference
Khatri, R., Endalamaw, A., Erku, D., Wolka, E., Nigatu, F., Zewdie, A., & Assefa, Y. (2023).

Continuity and care coordination of primary health care: a scoping review. BMC health

services research, 23(1), 750. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09718-8

Response 4

The use of video calls with the patient's spouse is an excellent example of how

technology can be used to maintain human connection in the ICU during times of isolation. This

intervention likely had a significant impact on the patient’s emotional and psychological well-

being, which is a critical aspect of recovery, especially when visits are restricted. The morale

boost from these interactions could improve the patient's motivation and cooperation with the

care plan, leading to better overall outcomes (Matusov et al., 2022). It’s also worth noting that

integrating family members into the care process can help bridge communication gaps, offering

patients a sense of familiarity and comfort in an otherwise intimidating environment.

Reference

Matusov, Y., Matthews, A., Rue, M., Sheffield, L., & Pedraza, I. F. (2022). Perception of

interdisciplinary collaboration between ICU nurses and resident physicians during the

COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of interprofessional education & practice, 27, 100501.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xjep.2022.100501

Response 5

This case highlights the importance of sociocultural competence in healthcare, especially in

high-stress situations like the ICU during a pandemic. Understanding the patient's cultural

background and individual needs is essential in creating a communication strategy that resonates
with them. The SLP's decision to develop an AAC plan that was specific to the patient's local

emphasis reflects a thoughtful consideration of these factors (Stubbe, 2020). By personalizing the

communication tools and approach, the healthcare team not only respected the patient's

preferences but also increased the likelihood of effective information exchange, which is vital in

managing care and ensuring the patient understands their treatment and recovery process.

Reference

Stubbe D. E. (2020). Practicing Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility in the Care of

Diverse Patients. Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing), 18(1), 49–51.

https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20190041

Response 6

The commitment to clear and compassionate communication in this case demonstrates

the healthcare team's dedication to patient-centered care. The challenges posed by ventilators,

dysphagia, and the widespread use of PPE required innovative solutions to maintain effective

communication. By creating an AAC plan and incorporating video calls, the team addressed not

just the medical but also the emotional and psychological needs of the patient. This holistic

approach is crucial in ICU settings, where patients often feel isolated and vulnerable. Moreover,

it highlights the importance of clinical excellence, where healthcare professionals go beyond

standard practices to provide empathetic, personalized care that supports both the patient’s

physical health and emotional well-being.

Reference
Lomiguen, C. M., Rosete, I., & Chin, J. (2020). Providing Culturally Competent Care for

COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit Delirium: A Case Report and Review. Cureus, 12(10),

e10867. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.10867

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