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Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Digital photography: enhancing communication between burn therapists and nurses
Lan B Van1, K M Sicotte, R R Lassiter
1Division of Burn Rehabilitation, Burn Center, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
The Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation
|January 17, 2004
Summary
A new communication tool with digital photos and written instructions improved splinting and positioning communication between burn therapists and nurses. This visual aid was perceived as highly effective by nursing staff.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Nursing Communication
- Burn Care Management
Background:
- Effective communication between burn rehabilitation therapists and nursing staff is crucial for successful patient recovery.
- Traditional communication methods for positioning and splinting programs may lack clarity and consistency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the perceived effectiveness of a novel communication tool for burn splinting and positioning instructions.
- To compare the new tool (digital photos with written instructions) against previous methods.
Main Methods:
- A communication tool was developed using Microsoft Word and Nikon View software.
- Thirty-two surveys were distributed to burn nursing staff to gather feedback on the tool's effectiveness.
- Perceptions were compared between the new visual tool and traditional instruction methods.
Main Results:
- Seventy-three percent of nurses found the communication tool, incorporating digital photographs and written instructions, to be the most effective method.
- The new tool significantly enhanced the clarity of splinting and positioning needs.
Conclusions:
- The developed communication tool is perceived as a highly effective method for conveying burn patient positioning and splinting information.
- Continued use of this visual communication strategy is recommended for rehabilitation staff.
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