This week, I attended IP Speech, Language Capacity, and Communication, where I learned how to communicate with patients when they consent. Through group discussions, I was able to delve deeper into the subject. We discussed the benefits of communication with both the patient and the nurse. I have gained knowledge of communication disorders. Communication disorders can involve voice issues, but they are different. I learned that
Communication difficulties can significantly impact patient engagement with healthcare professionals. These issues may result from a need for more shared language, leading to misunderstandings about treatment plans or clinical situations. Poor communication can result in patients not seeking timely treatment, potentially leading to more severe health issues. It can also cause frustration and a sense of inadequacy among healthcare professionals, especially if complaints are made; improving communication has been shown to enhance the quality of patient care and lower costs.
I also learned that there are various types of communication disorders. Although they are different, most individuals with autism share common impairments in verbal and nonverbal communication, displaying difficulties in the following areas: Language comprehension, speech, social cues, facial expressions, gestures, and emotional perception. I gained knowledge in speech and Language therapy, which provides treatment, support, and care for individual who faces challenges with communication as well as difficulties related to eating, drinking, and swallowing.
I had a placement in the neuro-disability ward, where I had to administer medication to a patient. Who had a brain injury? I had to introduce myself to the patient, explain what I would do, and gain consent. Brain injuries are caused by blunt trauma, which can damage your brain tissue, neurons, and nerves. This damage affects your brain’s ability to communicate with the rest of your body.
During my shift, I assisted a patient named Emmanuel, who had a percutaneous endoscopic gastrotomy (PEG) for enteral feeding and medication administration. Before giving the afternoon medication, I obtained consent from the patient. However, the patient refused to take the medication, and I respected their decision, as patients have the right to refuse treatment. I explained to the patient that the medication, levetiracetam, was necessary for preventing focal seizures, but the patient still declined. I waited a few minutes to ensure the patient was not distressed. I discovered that the patient had been tired from interacting with a physiotherapist, which was why he refused the medication. I informed my practice assessor about the situation and waited an hour before asking for consent again. After an hour, I explained to the patient that I would administer the medication through the PEG. The patient gave consent, signalling this with a blink, so I flushed the PEG with 60 mL of water to ensure it was not blocked. Then, I administered the Levetiracetam medication and provided 250 mL of water to the patient through PEG feeding. This experience taught me the importance of understanding the patient’s condition and advocating for them if they cannot consent to treatment.