Knowledge and experiences with augmentative and alternative communication by paediatric nurses: a pilot study. (18th August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simmons, Amanda; McCarthy, Jillian; Koszalinski, Rebecca; Hedrick, Mark; Reilly, Kevin; Hamby, Ellen
• Is Part Of: Disability and rehabilitation. Volume 16:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 567
• Page End: 579
• Publication Date: 2021-08-18
• Subjects: Augmentative-alternative communication -- paediatrics -- nurse -- training -- speech-language pathology; Rehabilitation technology -- Periodicals; Self-help devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; 617.03
• DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2019.1685015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-3107

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: The current mixed methods research study was designed to describe the experience and opinions of paediatric acute care nurses at a single paediatric medical centre regarding augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This research serves as the beginning of a line of research to determine needs that can be met through later education and training on AAC with paediatric acute care nurses. Methods: Mixed methods were used to gather survey and interview data from nurses at a single paediatric hospital to investigate their knowledge of AAC, perceived relevance of AAC for their patient populations, and preferences for training programmes. Results: Quantitative survey and qualitative interview data indicated a need for AAC education for these paediatric nurses. Nurses demonstrated limited knowledge and experience with AAC but communicated both a desire and perceived need to know more to effectively care for their patients. Conclusion: Nurses reported limited AAC knowledge but expressed a desire for support to use AAC with their patients. AAC education and cross-sector collaboration with healthcare workers such as speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and acute care paediatric nurses are indicated to support effective communication when interacting with patients with complex communication needs (CCN). Implications for rehabilitation: Improved background knowledge to develop and implement future nurse education on AAC. Foundation for cross-sector collaboration (e.g., nurses and SLPs) on AAC implementation in paediatric acute care settings