Impact of Lacking Communication Between Deaf Patients and Nurses within the Healthcare Field

Abstract

When we feel sick, we rely on intelligent healthcare professionals to provide us with treatment. However, if your doctor or nurse could not understand you, then the next time you feel sick, you are less likely to go in to be treated at all. This thesis shows nurses how lacking accommodations for their patients will turn them away from wanting treatment altogether, thus encouraging them to become more sensitive when caring for Deaf patients. Research determined which accommodations Deaf patients find the most helpful and useful. Deaf patients will benefit from a changed group of nurses who provide improved accommodations that make it easier for them to communicate with patients, and have patients feel more comfortable when seeking treatment.