As a nurse, you may encounter patients who are deaf or hard-of-hearing and need to communicate effectively with them. Building trust with these patients is crucial for providing quality care and ensuring their safety and satisfaction. Here are some tips on how to build trust with deaf or hard-of-hearing patients.
Before you interact with a deaf or hard-of-hearing patient, learn some basic facts and etiquette about their communication preferences and needs. For example, ask them if they use sign language, lip-reading, hearing aids, or other devices, and how they want you to get their attention. Avoid covering your mouth, speaking too fast or too slow, or making assumptions about their abilities or intelligence. Respect their autonomy and dignity, and do not treat them as if they are helpless or dependent.
Often experience people trying to communicate whilst the hearing aid is out, or talking behind my back whilst sorting something out/ typing on computer and not making it easy to lipread
Have accessibility policies in place for your disabled patients. How do they receive access? What process or procedures have to take place to request accessibility? Having an accessibility consultant can help you find inefficient or confusing areas in your practice. Use standardized procedures and train all staff on its implementation.
Entrando no mundo deles conseguimos o básico, pois quando fazemos de peito aberto fazemos com vontade e dedica??o. Ent?o fazemos bem feito ????????
If a patient uses sign language, you should always use a qualified interpreter to facilitate communication. Do not rely on family members, friends, or staff who are not trained or certified as interpreters, as they may not convey the information accurately or impartially. When using an interpreter, look at and speak directly to the patient, not the interpreter. Use clear and simple language, and check for understanding frequently. Be aware of the cultural and linguistic differences that may affect the interpretation.
To expound on “talking directly to the patient” avoid phrases such as “tell him/her…” “ask him/her if”. Pretend the interpreter is a neutral communication device like a telephone ??. In the health sector, drawing diagrams, and giving written instructions for discharge is also helpful.
Ask your Deaf patient if they have a preferred interpreter before the meeting. They might have used this interpreter for years and have built up trust in them. Be aware of family dynamics, and never use a family member in a health care setting. In the UK, make sure the interpreter is NRCPD registered. Get a confidentiality agreement drawn up for the interpreter to sign if necessary
Another way to build trust with deaf or hard-of-hearing patients is to provide them with written information that is relevant and accessible. For example, you can give them written instructions, consent forms, educational materials, or discharge plans that are easy to read and understand. You can also use visual aids, such as pictures, diagrams, or videos, to supplement the written information. Make sure that the written information is consistent with what you say verbally, and that the patient has enough time to review and ask questions.
Consider getting a BSL interpreted in video interpretation, and link to it via a QR code on correspondence. This should be the same written information, but in BSL via the video
Technology can also help you communicate with deaf or hard-of-hearing patients and build trust with them. For example, you can use text messages, emails, video calls, or apps to communicate with them before, during, or after their visit. You can also use devices, such as amplifiers, caption phones, or tablets, to enhance the communication in person. However, you should always ask the patient for their consent and preference before using any technology, and ensure that the technology is reliable, secure, and accessible.
Finally, building trust with deaf or hard-of-hearing patients requires patience and empathy. You should acknowledge the challenges and frustrations that they may face in accessing health care and communicating with providers. You should also express your interest and concern for their well-being and respect their feelings and opinions. You should avoid interrupting, rushing, or dismissing them, and instead, listen attentively, ask open-ended questions, and provide feedback and support . By being patient and empathetic, you can show that you care and value them as individuals.
Learn a few BSL/ASL signs. It shows you are willing to learn. It doesnt remove the need for an interpreter if you are not yet fluent, learn sign language!
Understanding that being without a hearing aid can be debilitating for a deaf person. So if there are waiting times or delays to communicate those empathetically As a professional and a father, issues with my hearing aids can have a significant impact on day-to-day life and I often feel like that isn’t understood by those in audiology
That people who are likely to have been deaf for a number of years are likely to have experienced and have experience with hearing aids themselves. I often feel like I’m being treated like it’s my first appointment, and that having worn hearing aids for 30 years that I don’t know what’s wrong with them or what is needed
When there is a language barrier informed consent is even more important. Explain side effects. Share pros and cons of treatment options. Be transparent about costs. Withholding information is a good way to break future trust. Ask for consent before you assume.