RESPONCES 2 WEEK 5 F..HEALTH COMM
RESPONCES 2 WEEK 5 F..HEALTH COMM
RESPONCES 2 WEEK 5 F..HEALTH COMM
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
understand medical information (Istanboulian et al., 2022). The use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) further complicates matters by obscuring facial expressions and lip movements,
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
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
https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15212
Response 2
In this patient case, the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) played a crucial role in
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
Reference
Vaz, M., D'Silva, C., Krishna, B., Ramachandran, P., D'Souza, M. C., Mendonca, L., & Raman,
Response 3
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
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
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
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xjep.2022.100501
Response 5
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
https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20190041
Response 6
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,
standard practices to provide empathetic, personalized care that supports both the patient’s
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