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Communicating with the unconscious patient
A T Bergenheim1, R Henriksson, M Knibestöl
1Departments of Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden.
The International Journal of Risk & Safety in Medicine
|March 21, 2013
Summary
Talking to unconscious patients is respectful and may aid recovery. Evidence suggests speech can influence physiological functions and potentially elicit cortical responses, even in those who are unconscious.
Area of Science:
- Medical Communication
- Neuroscience
- Patient Care
Background:
- Healthcare professionals often avoid communication with unconscious patients, deeming it futile.
- There is a lack of established protocols for communicating with individuals in an unconscious state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the rationale and potential benefits of communicating with unconscious patients.
- To examine the evidence supporting the impact of voice on physiological functions in unconscious individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on patient communication and consciousness.
- Analysis of anecdotal and empirical evidence regarding auditory stimulation in unconscious states.
Main Results:
- Communication with unconscious patients demonstrates respect and care for patients and families.
- Evidence indicates that speech can impact physiological functions and potentially evoke cortical responses in unconscious individuals.
Conclusions:
- Talking to unconscious patients is a recommended practice, showing respect and potentially improving outcomes.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the extent of auditory perception and its therapeutic effects in unconscious patients.
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